10/16/2025
Fred, 73, was admitted to Kindred Hospital Santa Ana after experiencing a sudden, life-threatening medical episode at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. His medical history was complex and included chest wall pleomorphic sarcoma with lung metastases, hypothyroidism, prostate cancer, stage III chronic kidney disease with IgA nephritis, high blood pressure, depression, and severe physical weakness.
When Fred arrived at Kindred Hospital Santa Ana, he had one clear goal: to return home. His care team developed a comprehensive treatment plan to address his medical, respiratory, and rehabilitation needs. He began therapy five times a week, focusing on exercises, activities of daily living, and gait training. Restorative nursing supported him with range-of-motion exercises on the weekends. At first, Fred could only stand for 30 seconds. By day two, he walked 60 feet with help. By day 10, he was walking 400 feet with only contact guard assistance—a remarkable improvement in such a short time.
Fred’s respiratory team helped wean him off supplemental oxygen, and by the time he was discharged, he no longer needed a nasal cannula to breathe comfortably. The medical team, along with nursing and pharmacy, carefully managed his chronic conditions, including kidney disease, hypothyroidism, hypertension, and chronic pain. His surgical wound healed well under close observation and care.
After just two weeks at Kindred Hospital Santa Ana, Fred achieved his goal. He was medically stable, off oxygen, and much stronger. He returned home with greater independence and a renewed quality of life. His story reflects how determination and expert, coordinated care can help even patients with complex medical needs make meaningful recoveries. "All of the staff at Kindred are kind, hardworking and motivated," shared Fred.
To read more success stories from patients of Kindred Hospital Santa Ana, please visit http://Kindrd.care/6181fHQul.
