Gill Recovers from COVID-19 and Returns Back Home
Gilbert Kersey was admitted to the hospital and put on a ventilator in October of 2020 after having difficulty breathing following contracting COVID-19. He then was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, where he stayed for two months, which was just the beginning of his recovery process. Gill received a brain injury from COVID-19 and needed therapy to help him gain back basic living skills. When Gill was able to leave the hospital, he went to a rehabilitation facility but did not make enough progress. It was in early 2021 that Gill was referred to our NeuroRestorative Garland, TX, program. Although it has not been easy, Gill fought COVID-19 and is now making strides in his rehabilitation.
Before having COVID-19, Gill lived a very active life. He was an enthusiastic fisherman, truck driver, actively involved in his church as Kaufmann chaplain, and a volunteer with prison ministry. With his faith and determination, Gill knew he would have to work hard in therapy to get back to his active life.
When Gill first started his therapy at NeuroRestorative, he was dependent on oxygen and a wheelchair and unable to stand. His therapy team worked with him on an individualized care plan, including physical, occupational, speech, and respiratory therapy. After the first month in treatment, he could stand up and walk with support of a walker. Over time, he became more independent. “It’s amazing how much progress I have made here. The full-day schedule here makes a difference and has been really good for me,” said Gill.
“NeuroRestorative was different. The care staff was phenomenal. I can’t praise everyone enough. I could call up there anytime, and they were there to answer,” said wife, Kim Kersey. “I wish we found NeuroRestorative earlier, but he got there when he needed and they were there for him. They pushed him and made him prove himself.”
Natalie Jackson, LBSW, Program Case Manager, has worked with Gilbert throughout this time at NeuroRestorative and is proud of the success he has achieved. “Every day of this journey, he has woken up to look adversity in the eye, using his weakness as motivation, overcoming all obstacles in his way with gratitude and appreciation for the fragility of life,” said Natalie.
Today, Gill can be away from his oxygen tank and can keep up with his workout therapy. Best of all, he is home with his family and is working hard to get back into the community and doing what he loves. 