Jenny’s story
A stroke doesn’t just affect a person’s health; it reshapes their entire world. For Jenny, a Corydon local, that journey began this past January when she arrived at the Harrison County Hospital Emergency Department.
What started as a frightening medical emergency turned into a long, challenging road to recovery. After her initial stay, Jenny was transferred to an intensive rehabilitation facility. However, while there, the full impact of the stroke began to surface. Jenny lost mobility on her left side, and her coordination and balance faltered. When her time at the facility was up, Jenny faced a heartbreaking reality: she wasn’t ready to go home.
That’s when Jenny returned to Harrison County Hospital to enter our Swing Bed Rehabilitation Program. Designed for patients who need an extended recovery period after a hospital stay, the program provides a “bridge” between intensive care and independent living.
Jenny spent 57 days with us, following a plan tailored specifically to her needs. The program allows for a tailored recovery plan that includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, respiratory therapy, pharmaceutical therapy, nutrition services, and care provided by nurses and physicians.
“My team has done fabulous work,” Jenny shared on her final day. “I don’t think I would be this far if I hadn’t come here.”
Jenny’s schedule was rigorous: six days of physical therapy and five days of occupational therapy every week. Her therapists, Annette and Caroline, focused on the practical skills that reclaim a life:
- Restoring Movement: Working to bring life back to her left hand and ankle with muscular strengthening, electric modalities, and the support of adaptive equipment.
- Daily Living: Practicing “pinch and grip” movements for dressing and bathing.
- Real-World Readiness: Navigating curbs, practicing car transfers, and walking on uneven outdoor surfaces.
- Home Skills: Mastering light housekeeping to ensure she could manage on her own.
“Jenny is so motivated,” said Annette, her Occupational Therapist. Caroline, her Physical Therapist, agreed: “A lot of people with Jenny’s level of impairment might lose heart, but Jenny always had an end goal in mind. We’ve had a lot of fun together.”
That dedication paid off. Last week, Jenny reached her goal: she was discharged home. While Jenny’s time at Harrison County is over, her story is just beginning. She is moving to Michigan to be closer to her family, where she will continue her progress through outpatient therapy. Most importantly, she’s getting back to the things she loves—bingo, crafting, and diving into a good historical fiction novel.
As she prepared for her move, Jenny had one final message for her neighbors in Corydon: “I’d recommend this hospital to anyone!”
To learn more about the Swing Bed Rehabilitation Program at Harrison County Hospital, visit www.hchin.org/swingbed
Congratulations, Dr. Bodney!
On Friday, we celebrated the career of Dr. Stephen Bodney at a retirement celebration marking 27 years of dedicated service to Harrison County Hospital and our community.
Dr. Bodney attended Indiana University where he received a BA in Chemistry and a BA in Biological/Life Sciences. He attended the Indiana University School of Medicine, where he graduated in 1985. Dr. Bodney completed a Surgical Internship and then Surgical Residency at William Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso, TX.
Dr. Bodney’s esteemed military services includes Army Medical Department Officer, Flight Surgeon and Combat Casualty Care & Advanced Medical Leadership Training.
Honors, Awards & Distinctions:
Meritorious Service Medal
Army Commendation Medal
National Defence Service Medal
Armed Forces Reserve Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Ribbon
Multinational Forces & Observers Medal
Flight Surgeon Wings
Dr. Bodney has held the roles of Chief of Surgery, Chief of Medical Staff, Medical Director for Harrison County Hospital EMS, Physician Advisor for SWAT/Emergency Response Team.
Professional service includes President of the Indiana Chapter of the American College of Surgeons, Board of Directors of the Harrison County Hospital Foundation, Chairman of the Cancer Care Committee, Chairman of the Tumor Board, and Physician Assistance Officer, and Board of Trustees for Harrison County Hospital.
Dr. Bodney and his wife Jeannie have retired to Bloomington, IN. His hobbies include fishing, shooting sports, bicycling, camping, home brewing, military vehicle preservation and information technology.
Dr. Bodney, we extend our deepest gratitude for your many years of dedication and serving others! Best wishes for retirement!
Swing Bed Program Celebrates 50th Patient!
Our Swing Bed Rehabilitation Team celebrated their 50th patient today! Congratulations to Calvin and our entire team on this milestone. Staff planned a party to mark the occasion!
Calvin explained that he chose the Harrison County Hospital Swing Bed Rehabilitation program for the convenience of the surgeon, physical therapist, occupational therapist, and any additional testing that may be needed. Calvin’s goal in joining the Swing Bed program was to be able to walk without pain. Calvin said they live in an older home, and it was important for him to learn how to navigate it.
Calvin described his overall experience as a Swing Bed patient as fantastic! “Everyone was so wonderful,” he said. “If they could see I was worrying about something, they would talk with me.” Calvin continued, “I would like to say to all the staff, you were great and went above and beyond.”
What is a Swing Bed program?
The Harrison County Hospital Swing Bed Rehabilitation Program provides care to patients who require extended recovery time after their hospital stay. Patients can receive continued care closer to home. The Swing Bed program allows for a tailored recovery plan, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, respiratory therapy, pharmaceutical therapy, nutrition services, and care provided by nurses and physicians. Harrison County Hospital Swing Bed Rehabilitation Program promotes improved recovery options, access to care, and supports a safe transition to home to prevent readmission to the hospital.
Learn more about the Swing Bed Rehabilitation Program at https://www.hchin.org/services/swingbed/
Welcoming our new Physical Therapist, Caroline!
We are excited to welcome a new therapist to the Harrison County Hospital Rehabilitation & Therapy Services, Caroline Elliott, PT, DPT.
Caroline is originally from Jeffersonville, IN. She attended undergraduate studies at Indiana State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Massage Therapy. She returned to the area to complete her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Bellarmine University.
Through their program, Caroline was able to complete a cadaveric research study with three classmates exploring anatomical variations with the brachial plexus and how they could contribute to patients with thoracic outlet syndrome. She also had the opportunity to travel to Belize last January to collaborate with physical therapists in their country to exchange knowledge and treat patients.
Outside of work, Caroline volunteers as a mentor for high school students who are a part of the Youth Philanthropy Council through the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana. Caroline assists them in understanding and participating in the grant cycle and connecting with the non-profits that benefit from these funds in the Clark and Floyd County communities.
She also works weekends at a yoga studio in Louisville, KY, and loves to practice there throughout the week. When Caroline’s not busy with all that, you can find her spending time with her fiancé, Daniel, and cat Ollie. She loves to hike, kayak, tent camp, and spend time outdoors.
You will see Caroline working with inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation patients, and working with patients in our Swing Bed Program.
Benefits of the Flu Shot from a Primary Care Physician
Benefits of the Flu Shot from a Primary Care Physician
The flu season is typically October through May. The flu shot is recommended annually for anyone 6 months of age and older.
If you haven’t had a flu shot this season, here’s why you should get one:
- Benefits for you:
- Reduces your risks of catching the influenza virus.
- If you do still catch the influenza virus, it decreases the severity of symptoms.
- Reduces serious complications of the flu such as the risk of pneumonia and hospitalization.
- Protects friends and family members with chronic diseases.
- Benefits for the community:
- Protects vulnerable people who can develop severe complications.
- Community immunity means the virus is less likely to spread to those who cannot be immunized such as babies younger than 6 months old.
- Reduced stress on the healthcare system.
- Less missed days from work and school.
Ask your provider for one at your next appointment or get one this season at your local pharmacy.
Michelle DiCostanzo, MD
Harrison Crawford Healthcare – 812-738-3086
Click here for more information
Tips for the common cold from a primary care physician.
With the change in weather approaching, it is becoming more common to catch a cold. The common cold is a viral illness and can be prevented by following the below recommendations:
- Wash your hands frequently: Use soap and water for at least 15-30 seconds, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available.
- Avoid touching your face: Viruses can enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or the crook of your arm to prevent the spread of germs.
- Minimize contact with sick individuals: Stay away from people who have colds to reduce your risk of exposure.
Lifestyle Choices to Boost Immunity
- Get enough sleep: Aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night.
- Eat a healthy diet: Consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support a strong immune system.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help your immune system produce virus-fighting cells.
- Manage stress: Reducing stress can also help strengthen your body’s ability to fight off illness.
Click here for some additional information regarding the common cold.
Harrison Crawford Healthcare
1263 Hospital Drive NW, Suite 280
Corydon
812-738-3086
Harrison County Hospital & our Physician Practices are in-network with Cigna
We know that navigating insurance can be confusing, and we’re here to help make it easier. Harrison County Hospital is proud to be in-network with Cigna insurance, and we want to assure our community that you can continue to see our providers and specialists for your care.
Your health is our top priority, and we’re committed to providing the care you need, right here at HCH.
