Finding Hope and Strength Through Adventist Health’s Acute Physical Rehab

A joyful moment at a family wedding quickly turned into an unexpected medical journey for Sandy Vanbrunt. While reaching for the bride’s bouquet at her nephew’s wedding, Sandy fell to the ground; the next day, she could hardly walk. 

Her pain led her to the emergency room, where she learned she had several spine-related concerns that required surgery. After surgery at UC Davis, Sandy knew she needed continued care before returning home. She needed to rebuild her strength, regain confidence, and find support for both her physical and emotional recovery. 

Finding hope through rehabilitation

That next step brought her to the Acute Physical Rehabilitation unit at Adventist Health Lodi Memorial. 

“I had to come to rehab to get stronger,” Sandy shared. “Being in rehab helped to give me some hope.” 

From the beginning, Sandy says the rehabilitation team helped her feel welcomed, heard and cared for. She describes her experience as wonderful, noting that the team was caring, friendly, and attentive throughout her stay.  

“Everyone has been very caring, friendly and had excellent bedside manners,” Sandy said. “All of the team was welcoming and talked with me, listened to me and let me joke around.” 

Healing beyond the physical

For Sandy, rehabilitation was more than physical healing. After several difficult months, she says she needed a mental reset as much as she needed to regain strength. The APR team created a safe, encouraging environment where she could laugh, express herself, and focus on moving forward. 

“They gave me hope and helped me reset everything I was going through,” she said. “It’s been nice to feel safe to laugh and express myself.” 

Regaining independence

As part of her recovery, Sandy worked on important activities of daily living, including showering and rebuilding the independence needed to safely return home. She says the team helped her feel comfortable while encouraging her to keep progressing. 

“This is where I needed to be before I go home,” Sandy said. “If I had to go home straight from UC Davis, my recovery would’ve been really hard. I am so grateful for the aftercare.” 

Advice for others on the recovery journey

Her advice for others who may need rehabilitation is simple: Speak up. 

“Don’t be shy. Ask for things you need,” Sandy said. “At first, I was the type that didn’t want to bother people. But it helped to speak up.” 

Looking ahead With strength and determination

Today, Sandy is looking ahead with determination. One of her biggest goals is to travel independently again, including stepping back onto a cruise ship without needing help. More than anything, she wants to keep building the strength to live the life she loves. 

“I want to be strong enough to live my life,” Sandy said. “I still have years in front of me.”

A story of resilience and hope

Sandy’s story is a reminder that recovery is not only about healing the body. It is also about restoring hope, confidence, and the belief that brighter days are ahead.