Op-Ed: From injury to epiphany

My recent admission to a well-known rehabilitation center in Burbank prompted me to write an article about my experience.

Following a severe injury to my ankle, much to my disappointment, I was admitted to the rehabilitation facility. The 10 days I spent there awakened me to an appreciation of how the turn of events in one’s life can quickly change the color of your vision.

I did not want to be there. But as I began to build relationships with my caregivers, I came to realize how difficult their job is.

No two patients are alike, but their caregivers seem to understand their individual personalities, likes, dislikes, moods and their family history. I realized the care I needed was not as complex as that required by others.

The hardest thing for me was to realize and accept my limitations. After discussions with the physician and therapist, I finally realized the facility’s goal was to help me recuperate so I could get back on my feet.

Day in and day out, I worked with the therapists to improve my strength. I adjusted my negative thinking and settled into a routine. During the course of my stay, I realized that I was one of the few lucky enough to have a family to go home to.

For some of the center’s residents, that is their home. They have no family contact, no visitors — only the dedicated caregivers who tend to their needs.

I believe people come into your life at the right time for the right reason. I was lucky to meet the most beautiful soul, another patient who was apparently abandoned by her family.

We chatted each day, and I would wheel my chair to her bedside, sing songs with her and just hold her hand. She would smile, and the sparkle from her bright blue eyes warmed my heart.

Little did she know, she was doing as much for me as I hope that I did for her. After discussion with my family, we decided to “adopt” this resident to give her as much love as we can.

She was moved to a long-term care room. My daughter visited her in her new space and noticed that she had no TV. It was hard to imagine how difficult it is to spend all day in a bed, no stimulation, nor the ability to get out of bed on her own. The only pleasure she had was her view outside the window. We decided to donate a TV to her. Our sweet “adopted grandma” is now enjoying her TV, which she tells me she watches day and night.

I am now recuperating at home. I make a phone call to our “adopted grandma” daily. During one of my calls, I was singing to her, and there was a stark silence at the other end after I finished. Then, she whispered, “ My daddy used to sing that song to me as a child.” I was overwhelmed with emotion.

We have since purchased a tablet for her and plan on loading it with movies and music for her to enjoy, as she says she loves learning new things.

During the path of your life, you sometimes are diverted. I believe it’s a divine way to either teach you a lesson or provide you with a meaningful experience. Embrace each experience for what it is, open your eyes and soul to accept the things you cannot change.

We are all on this earth for a limited time. We never know when our shelf life will expire. Make a difference in some small way and pass it on.

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DIANE MENDONCA is a Sun Valley resident.