Forced to make modifications to routine activities, Florence was experiencing serious side effects to her breast cancer medications. Some cancer treatments can lower bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, like in Florence’s case.

Despite being cancer-free today, she still finds the simplest of movements can result in bone issues. That’s why her oncologist referred her to the NYGH Geriatric Day Hospital, an outpatient rehabilitation program aimed at helping seniors maintain their sense of dignity and independence through improved health and quality of life.

“The comprehensive care, partnered with the attention of all the therapists at the Geriatric Day Hospital have been amazing,” she applauded. “They’re all very helpful, providing impactful advice and facilitating processes that normally take me a long time to organize. I am finding my endurance is getting better while utilizing the equipment here. My cardio is better; I am breathing better; and I am sleeping better. There has been a vast improvement overall.”

And through all of her hardships, Florence kept her fighting spirit, a smile and a sense of humour.

“My motto has been ‘just don’t fall,’” she laughed. “But I am really trying to improve my balance and the way I approach certain activities so I can decrease any possibilities of a fracture or broken bone.”

Through rehabilitation, assessments, treatment and education, Florence is getting back the life she thought she had lost.

“I currently have a beautiful garden, which I love and want to keep growing,” she explained. “My goal is to improve my overall health and stay in my house for as long as possible. With the pandemic, I haven’t been able to do a lot of the activities I previously enjoyed, like exercising and other arts and cultural events.”

Although today Florence is cancer-free, she says there is always a risk it could return.

“With cancer, you can never be certain. I continue to be monitored just to be sure there are no lumps,” she stressed. “But I am grateful to have found the support I need right here in North York.”

Why seniors need support

As an alumni of three educational institutions, Florence says she’s seen first-hand the many organizations with worthy causes looking for support, but rarely is seniors care at the heart of it.

“It is so hard to find services and rehabilitation programs available to seniors,” she explained. “To have a program like the one offered by NYGH – I have never seen anything like it. It is well-staffed; it is comprehensive; and it is compassionate.”

NYGH’s Geriatric Day Hospital decreases the need for emergency visits and admission to a long-term care facility, it also provides services that make earlier discharge from the hospital possible.

“This program and this incredible care team at the NYGH Geriatric Day Hospital have been a godsend for me. I am forever thankful to all the supporters and donors who keep seniors care a priority.”