Serving our Veterans with Compassionate Care
December 15, 2025
By: Riverview Health
Categories: Patient Story
Tags: patient story, veteran, acute rehab
Out of respect for this patient’s military service, their name has been omitted from this testimonial to maintain confidentiality.
At Riverview Health, we are honored to care for patients like this veteran, who came to us through the emergency department after experiencing complications at another hospital. At the time, they were heavily medicated and disoriented, even recalling moments of confusion when they believed they were back in uniform. After being stabilized, they were transferred to The Mindrebo Family Acute Rehabilitation Unit at Riverview Health where their experience quickly turned around.
“My nurses stuck it out with me, even when I wasn’t at my best,” they said. “They made me laugh, lifted my spirits, and helped me push through my PTSD.”
The patient emphasized how our team honored their request to gradually reduce pain medications. “As an old soldier, I can’t function on heavy medication. The team listened to me, adjusted my care accordingly, and made sure I felt in control of my recovery. That means everything to me.”
From our nurses and therapists to housekeeping and food services, every member of our care team made a difference in this patient’s healing journey. “It didn’t feel like a hospital stay; it felt like a little vacation. I felt safe, cared for, and respected. I’m taking Riverview Health’s information to the VA so I can recommend this hospital to other veterans who need help. You’ve done a fantastic job.”
We are grateful for this patient’s trust, their service, and their heartfelt words. Caring for them was our honor—and a reminder of why we do what we do.
For more information about Riverview Health’s Rehabilitation Services, visit https://www.riverview.org/services/rehabilitation-services.