CLH Helps Patients Transition From Hospital to Home
Fifty-six years ago, L.B. Arnold (81) and his wife, Sybil, visited Calhoun Liberty Hospital brought their first child into the world at Calhoun Liberty Hospital. They went on to have another daughter, and recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Over the years, they have raised a beautiful family and been active in their community. L.B. served as a Liberty County commissioner for 28 years.
L.B. and Sybil never slowed down much. They love to camp, do lots of fishing, work around their property, and spend time with beloved family and friends.
One day in late 2023, L.B. began to have shortness of breath as he worked in the yard. He didn’t mention anything to Sybil then, but after symptoms continued, he decided to let her know just in case there was something to it. They visited a local medical provider, where it was quickly determined that Mr. Arnold needed to be transferred to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital (TMH) for more acute care.
Physicians at TMH determined that L.B. had a blockage in his heart and would need bypass surgery. He underwent surgery successfully, but had complications with healing. After returning to TMH and being kept for several days, L.B. was anxious to get home but he and Sybil agreed that she would not be able to care for him on her own until he was able to regain strength. He’d lost 22 pounds and would need physical therapy along with ongoing IV antibiotics to help him fully recover. Initially they thought they’d have to spend weeks at a facility in Tallahassee, which would be a challenge for family and friends to support L.B. When they learned that Calhoun Liberty Hospital could serve them through their Transitional Rehabilitation program, they were relieved to have the opportunity to recover close to home.
L.B. was transferred to CLH on January 12th and spent the following 4 weeks there. Sybil was able to visit every day, and they often had friends drop by to encourage L.B., bring thoughtful gifts, or just to share tall tales. He and Sybil both built relationships with the skilled caregivers who provided around the clock care, administering medication and necessary physical therapy.
“I couldn’t have asked for any better care than I’ve gotten at Calhoun Liberty Hospital,” said L.B. “The people here have been wonderful, and I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.”
Physical therapist Justin Taylor worked with L.B. to help rebuild strength and stamina during his time at CLH.
“If all my patients were like Mr. Arnold, I may not have a job,” he joked. He couldn’t be more pleased with Mr. Arnold’s hard work and recovery.
Brannon House serves as the coordinator and case manager for the transitional rehab program, and is proud of the outstanding outcome achieved with Mr. Arnold.
“Mr. L.B. has been an exemplary patient and an ideal candidate for this program,” she said. “Our goal is to be the link between leaving a more acute care facility and returning home. Many patients need help with care during that critical time of healing, and it was a privilege to help Mr. L.B. and Mrs. Sybil get home.”
On Valentine’s Day Mrs. Sybil was able to take L.B. home, and they couldn’t have asked for anything sweeter.