After the Fall: One Patient's Path to Recovery Following Successful Hip Surgery

"I couldn't even use my right leg to brake the car," recalls Stephen Diamond, describing the moment he realized his fall outside a restaurant one rainy March evening was more serious than he initially thought. The 66-year-old elder law attorney had tripped over a bench, but his stubborn streak kicked in first.

"Being stubborn, I thought maybe some time in the hot tub would help," Diamond says with a laugh. "Getting out of a hot tub with a broken hip is not an experience I'd recommend."

Honorable Stephen Diamond at the judges bench in Union Vale's Town Hall

After arriving at MidHudson Regional Hospital, Diamond had X-rays that confirmed a broken hip. The next evening, surgeons inserted three screws to repair the fracture. Following the procedure, Diamond was transferred to the hospital's inpatient rehabilitation unit under the care of Ashley Kakkanatt, MD, Associate Medical Director of Inpatient Rehabilitation, and her team.

During his two-and-a-half-week rehabilitation stay, Diamond worked diligently with the therapy team, focusing on walking, stretching and navigating stairs safely. "The staff was excellent—very attentive and genuinely concerned about my progress." His stay even coincided with the retirement celebration of a therapist who served the unit for 35 years, and Diamond helped arrange photos to commemorate the occasion—a memorable example of the strong bonds formed between staff and patients.

Diamond particularly praised the rehabilitation team's dedication. "They were just excellent across the board," he says.

Following his inpatient stay, Diamond completed eight weeks of outpatient physical therapy. Today, he walks unassisted and has returned to normal activities, though he admits to being more cautious on stairs. The experience even prompted some life reflection.

Following eight weeks of outpatient rehab, Steve is back to his normal activities

"While I was working from my hospital bed—and getting scolded for not resting—I realized it was time to start thinking about slowing down," says Diamond. "Sometimes life gives you unexpected moments to reflect on what's really important." In his own unique interpretation of "slowing down," he joined the Union Vale Fire District, and thanks to the great care he received he was able to pass the vigorous health physical.

Diamond's experience highlighted the quality of care at MidHudson Regional Hospital. "My experience was exceptional from the emergency room through rehabilitation. I couldn't have asked for better care."

Are you or is someone you know struggling with a disability? Connect with our team of physiatrists, rehabilitation nurses, physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, rehabilitation neuropsychologists, and social workers so we can help you achieve your goals.

Steve taking a stroll in Tymor Park