I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the Reactivation Centre had been renovated and provided an optimistic bright environment for recovery. My dad and I visited my mom daily during this time to bring her familiar foods, such as fruit and shortbread, as well as reading material and a tablet.

Five days after my mom was transferred to the Reactivation Centre, I had to return home to Winnipeg, but my dad continued to visit my mom and I called daily. In addition to physiotherapy and other medical supports, the Centre offered daily recreational activities (such as singing, painting, and drawing), which my mom enjoyed. She also liked to converse with two other older ladies who had also broken their bones. These activities helped to create a community for patients – many of whom are older and require more lengthy stays.

My mom was discharged home just before Thanksgiving and is continuing to recover at home. She uses a walker to help her get around and attends weekly outpatient physiotherapy for muscle reconditioning. She has resumed daily tasks such as cooking and activities she enjoys such as reading and meditation, although no long walks or gardening yet.

I’m so grateful to North York General for helping my mom get back on her feet and for waiting until she was able put weight on her leg again before discharging her home. It would have been unbelievably difficult for my 75-year-old father to look after my mom if she couldn’t move around on her own, and I appreciate that staff gave my mother the time she needed to return home safely.

Seint, A thankful daughter