Valera's Story

“RIM made such a difference in her life during the time she was there.” -Valera’s granddaughter

“After being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, an autoimmune disorder causing numbness, weakness, and tingling in her hands, fingers, legs, and feet, muscle weakness, and other mobility issues, as a result of chemo and immunotherapy treatments for breast cancer, Valera was told she would never walk again.   

That diagnosis was something Valera, her daughter, Danita and granddaughter, Kayla, refused to accept.   

“I knew the Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan had an outstanding reputation. I was confident that if we could get my mother there, she would improve and have a chance at living a quality life,” says Danita.

In January 2024, Valera was transferred to RIM, bedbound. On her second day, they had her up and walking. Occupational and physical therapists created challenging tasks for her and pushed her to achieve her goals, but at the same time, they made her feel right at home.

“They found things that I enjoyed and turned it into rehab, like playing Scrabble. My fingers were so numb, I couldn’t feel anything. Picking up and setting down the game tiles was therapy. I baked cookies. Putting in the ingredients and mixing them helped me with movement. The same with learning to walk again. They played Motown music. I can’t help but tap my foot or move to the music. All those little motions are what helped me improve to where I was independent again and walking with a cane,” said Valera.  

Valera continued with outpatient therapy three times a week through the summer, regaining her independence and ability to walk with a cane. Sadly, Valera’s cancer returned shortly thereafter, and she passed away in the fall of 2024. 

“RIM made such a difference in her life during the time she was there. The healthcare was beyond excellent. They were so supportive and encouraging. Her room was 336 – which her team called “Club 336”, and all the healthcare workers would visit. They truly cared about Ma and treated her like family.” says Kayla.