From Bed-Bound to Moving Forward: Mike’s Transition to Wellness Journey

When Mike Burleson returned to Newcastle after breaking his hip and femur, he still had a long road to recovery ahead of him.

After receiving care in Rapid City, Mike was able to return to Weston County Health Services to continue his recovery through our Transition to Wellness Program.

When Mike first arrived, he was bed-bound and required significant assistance with sitting, moving and completing everyday activities.

Today, he is walking with a walker, transferring to his scooter and completing bed mobility independently.

When asked how he would describe his experience at WCHS, Mike didn't need many words.

“Really great!” — Mike Burleson

Coming Back to His Community

For Mike, returning to WCHS meant being able to continue the next stage of his recovery closer to home and surrounded by people from his own community.

When asked what he has enjoyed most about recovering at WCHS, his answer wasn't about the building or equipment. It was about the people.

“The staff, nurses & PTs.” — Mike Burleson

Those people have been alongside Mike as he has worked toward becoming stronger, safer and more independent in his everyday activities.

“They Have Brought Me a Long, Long Way”

Perhaps one of the biggest changes during Mike's time in Transition to Wellness has been his mobility.

According to the WCHS Therapy Department, Mike was bed-bound when he began therapy and required maximum assistance for sitting balance and functional mobility.

Through dedication, hard work and skilled therapy, that has changed significantly.

Mike is now walking with a walker, completing transfers to his scooter and performing bed mobility independently. He has also improved his upper-body strength, allowing him to participate more independently in activities of daily living.

Mike has noticed the difference, too.

“I can walk with a walker. PT has been wonderful. They have brought me a long, long way. I’d hate to think where I would be without PT.” — Mike Burleson

His therapy team says Mike's determination has been an important part of that progress.

“Throughout his therapy journey, this patient has consistently demonstrated a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to take on new challenges.” — WCHS Therapy Department

Hard Work With a Little Humor

Therapy isn't always easy, but Mike's team says he has brought his personality and sense of humor along for the journey.

He approaches his therapy sessions ready to work, takes on new challenges and is willing to safely push himself beyond his comfort zone.

His therapists say his witty personality also brings plenty of energy and enjoyment to their sessions. Whether he's sharing a joke or tackling a challenging activity, Mike has found a way to make therapy both productive and fun.

Progress Looks Different for Every Patient

Mike's journey is also an important reminder that progress doesn't look the same for everyone.

For one patient, the goal may be walking independently. For another, success may mean safely walking with a walker, transferring to a wheelchair or scooter, getting in and out of bed, getting dressed or completing everyday activities with less assistance.

Transition to Wellness isn't about every patient reaching the same finish line.

It's about helping each person reach their safest and highest level of function and independence.

For Mike, some of the biggest goals have centered around functional mobility, safe transfers, strength, balance and greater independence with activities of daily living.

What Is Transition to Wellness?

The Transition to Wellness Program at Weston County Health Services provides short-term skilled care and rehabilitation for patients who need additional support following a hospitalization, surgery, illness or injury.

For some patients who receive specialized care outside of Weston County, Transition to Wellness may provide an opportunity to return to their local community for the next stage of recovery when medically appropriate.

Depending on each patient's individual needs, their care may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, skilled nursing care, strength and mobility training, activities of daily living, patient and family education, and discharge planning.

Every patient's goals are individualized around what is safe, meaningful and achievable for them.

Why This Work Matters

For the WCHS Therapy Department, watching patients like Mike regain abilities and confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

“Watching a patient make this kind of progress is incredibly rewarding and truly represents why we chose this profession.” — WCHS Therapy Department

The team says being able to care for people from their own community makes that work even more meaningful.

“Being able to support a patient as they work toward their goals, regain functional abilities, and ultimately return to the things they enjoy is one of the most fulfilling parts of what we do.” — WCHS Therapy Department

What Would Mike Tell Someone Else?

After everything Mike has experienced during his time in Transition to Wellness, we asked him what he would tell another patient who was considering coming to WCHS for their recovery.

His answer was pretty straightforward.

“Go! Best thing you will ever do. Has been for me anyways!” — Mike Burleson

From being bed-bound and requiring significant assistance to walking with a walker, transferring to his scooter and completing bed mobility independently, Mike has come a long way.

And he's still moving forward.

That's what Transition to Wellness is about: meeting patients where they are, recognizing that everyone's goals are different, and helping each person become stronger, safer and more confident as they prepare for what's next.

Could Transition to Wellness Be Right for You or a Loved One?

If you or someone you love is recovering from surgery, illness, injury or hospitalization and may need additional skilled care or rehabilitation, talk with your healthcare team about whether the Transition to Wellness Program at Weston County Health Services may be an option.

Please Call 307-746-3769 for more information.