What started as a routine day on the farm quickly took a turn for Dean R. of Alexandria. While checking his cattle, a large dairy cow knocked him down and held him to the ground, causing multiple fractures. After several days at St. Cloud Hospital, he transferred to Glacial Ridge for continued recovery.

“I feel lucky to be here. I was out checking my cows when a 1,500-pound cow came from behind and pinned me between the cement and her head. That left me with a fractured neck, rib, and shoulder. After spending five days in St. Cloud, I was able to come back to Glenwood for short-term rehab once my pain was under control. My wife wanted me closer to home and where she worked. I’m thankful I could be.

The nursing staff were always there for me, and I really appreciated the assistants who walked with me to get exercise. As a farmer, I’m used to being outside and moving around, so that meant a lot. The therapy staff were all very caring and did their jobs well.

My experience here was very good. The staff were my guardian angels while I was here. They took very good care of me.”

Therapy That Built Strength

Dean’s plan included personalized therapy — up to two sessions per day in PT, OT, and speech therapy, if needed, based on his progress. That intensity helped him rebuild strength and independence steadily and safely.

“In true farmer fashion, Dean was always motivated,” said his Occupational Therapist, Molly Maudal. “To get back to his role on the farm, he needed to be able to navigate his yard at home. Dean worked hard through every challenge, building his strength and endurance with each session. We even went outside to simulate the uneven ground he’d face at home. His determination to get back to what he loves really drove his progress.”

Local Recovery Helped His Family

His wife and family appreciated not having to drive to another community for his continued recovery. With GRHS having a Swing Bed program locally, they could visit easily and often when it worked for them.