Independence Plus Blog
Raise Your Glass to Muscular Dystrophy
John McHugh, 31, is a sports enthusiast, avid movie-goer, and college graduate. When John was only four years old, he was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a genetic disorder causing progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Fourteen years ago, his Irish Catholic family began fundraising for the Muscular Dystrophy Association—and they are still going strong.
The Story of a Budding Rock Star
Aiden, 5, loves music. When he was two years old, Aiden began drumming on the kitchen table. Today, Aiden plays three different djembe drums for up to an hour every day—and is even learning to play the piano. Despite being born with Nager syndrome, Aiden is thriving.
Xavier’s Wish Comes True
Xavier, 5, has the most contagious smile. When he flashes his wide, open-mouthed grin, you can’t help but beam right back at him. Born premature at 27 weeks, Xavier has a complicated medical history that has left him without a diagnosis and ventilator-dependent. He recently traveled to Disney World through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Isobel Goes to School!
Thanks in large part to her parents, Emily and Dave, and nurse, Mindy Klein, LPN, Isobel (age 3) has proven that attending school is possible—even with Spina Bifida! Now off the ventilator completely, Isobel travels with Mindy four days a week to preschool in a big yellow school bus.
The Emotional Impact of Eating
“This is my passion,” Christine Baker, MS, CCC-SLP, begins, referring to Independence Plus’ medically fragile, technology-dependent patients. Christine spoke to our Home Nursing Residents earlier this week about oral intake for tracheostomy and ventilator-dependent patients. “Swallowing,” she says, “It’s the difference between life and death.”
Passion for One-on-One Patient Care
Vicki Ainsworth, RN, has a passion for one-on-one patient care, enthusiasm for learning and education, and killer sense of humor. But her selflessness is what truly sets her apart. Vicki explains why she loves her work, “Working in home nursing, I’m able to make a real difference in the lives of my patients.”
A Mission to Serve
“I’ve always volunteered my time to serve others,” Julie Hanson, BSN, RN, Clinical Education Manager continues, “I believe it’s our purpose as human beings.” In February, Julie, along with members of her church, organized a medical and humantiarian mission to the Philippines. They raised $23,000 (more than double their goal!) and treated more than 1,500 people.
A True Patient Advocate
Jose “Tony” Galvez, 25, is a dedicated and passionate patient advocate for Muscular Dystrophy (MD). “Everything I do is motivated by helping others,” Tony explains. Diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy at age seven, Tony learned to channel the frustration for his diagnosis into advocacy work.
Bill and Chris: A Love Story
Happily married for more than 10 years, Bill and Chris Schaffert are thankful they found each other. Bill and Chris were asked on Valentine’s Day: What is the secret is to your marriage? “A sense of humor!” Chris quickly replies. Bill suffers from an undiagnosed neuromuscular disease, similar to Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Just the same, Bill and Chris continue to make each other laugh every day.
Respiratory Care Student Shares His Experience at Independence Plus
This is the second year Independence Plus is partnering with Rush University Medical Center to offer Rush’s respiratory care students a clinical rotation in home respiratory care. This guest blog post was written by Troy Ellens, RRT, a graduate from Rush University Medical Center’s Masters of Science in Respiratory Care, about his experience during his clinical rotation at Independence Plus last year.
Inspirational Video Message on Making a Difference
“No matter what your circumstances are in life, you are able to do something positive for your family – and for the world. It’s important to find something that is good for yourself and for all people.” – Onix Flores. Watch the rest of Onix’s inspirational message after the jump.
8 Tips for a Successful Transition Home
Transitioning a loved one home from the hospital can be overwhelming. Our transition team coordinates the transition home from start to finish, so families can focus on what really matters—supporting their loved one. “If I have one piece of advice for creating a smooth transition home, it’s planning and preparation,” shares Nancy Tafoya, CRRN, BSN, MA, Director of Nursing at Independence Plus, Inc.
Grow With Us
We’re expanding our services and offerings. We want you to be a part of the team that is delivering personalized, individual, people-focused skilled home healthcare to those in need. Come join us.