Embracing Recovery Close to Home - Ruth Potter’s Swing Bed Story

At 84 years old, Ruth has spent 82 of those years in the community, raising her family and building a life close to the people and places she loves. When a sudden medical emergency changed her routine, staying close to home mattered more than ever.

After experiencing a complete heart block, Ruth blacked out, fell, and broke her ankle. She required a pacemaker procedure at a larger hospital and needed rehabilitation while her ankle healed. Because she was unable to put weight on her foot, inpatient rehabilitation was essential.

Ruth had read about the Swing Bed Program at McKenzie Health System in the local newspaper and knew it was where she wanted to continue her recovery.

“I preferred to be close to home,” Ruth shared. “It sounded like a great program for what I needed.”

Her care team contacted McKenzie’s Swing Bed coordinator to learn more about the program and arranged for her transfer. Soon after, Ruth returned to her community to begin her recovery.

During her 20-day stay, Ruth received physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help her safely regain strength and mobility. She credits the staff for making her recovery comfortable and stress-free.

“The staff was so accommodating,” she said. “They cooked all my meals, managed my diabetes, and kept my room tidy, so I did not have to worry about any of that.”

Ruth shared that meals were one of the highlights of her stay, with plenty of options available each day. During Thanksgiving, the staff prepared a full holiday meal with all the traditional fixings, creating a warm and familiar experience for patients spending the holiday away from home.

“From young to old, everyone was very kind,” Ruth said. “I got along very well with everyone.”

Today, Ruth continues to receive care locally and says she would recommend McKenzie’s Swing Bed Program without hesitation. “It worked out well for me,” she said. “And I am sure it has and will for many others.”

Ruth is also excited about the future of healthcare in Sanilac County with the construction of McKenzie’s new hospital. “Keeping care available close to home gives me peace of mind,” she said. “Especially knowing my loved ones live in the area.” For Ruth, having a local health system means faster access to care, familiar faces, and the reassurance that help is nearby when it matters most. “It is great for when you need someone in a hurry,” she said.

Ruth’s story reflects what local healthcare is meant to be — personal, compassionate, and close to home.

In moments when life takes an unexpected turn, knowing expert care is available right in your own community can make all the difference.