Ignite Medical Resorts’ Crown Point location hosted its Miracle on Main Street event on Wednesday, December 18. The Christmas-themed event invited guests to mingle amongst one another as they enjoyed light refreshments, snapped a photo with Santa Claus, and learned more about how Ignite is revolutionizing the physical therapy game with new, innovative robotics technology one step at a time.
This included the Andago® – a machine designed to help patients who struggle with limited mobility take steps with ease – a virtual reality set with games to get the patients up and moving, and much more.
“We already have patients who have really enjoyed using the Andago® because it's helped our patients who have not been able to stand or walk,” said Occupational Therapist Assistant Ashley Faucault. “It's given them the support to not only stand and regain their confidence and their balance, but it also allows them to actually shift their weight, pick up their feet, and move them for the first time in a long time.”
While these machines have only been available to Ignite’s patients for a limited time – they were brought to Ignite just a few months ago in the fall – the new technology is already making a tremendous impact in their lives.
“We are showcasing our new robotics technology tonight, such as the Andago®, and we’re proud to have a few success stories that we actually showcased today with one of our current residents who was very happy to participate,” said Robert Petty, general manager at Ignite’s Crown Point location. “She was non-ambulatory when she came in. She's been here less than two weeks, but she's already up and walking.”
The patient, Annette Bradford, was in awe just how quickly she could move around with the help of the Andago® – Wednesday night was just her second time in the machine. Prior to coming to Ignite and working with the Andago®, Bradford wasn’t sure if she would ever stand on her own or even walk again. However, testing the machine out this past week has given her a new sense of hope that her dreams aren't too far out of reach.
“I think it's amazing,” Bradford said. “I'm not able to use one of my feet at all. I have a drop foot; It will turn on me at any time. I'm not able to stand, but this gave me the support I needed so that I was able to walk.”
Her other source of motivation was the Ignite team itself. While the Andago® is helping her regain mobility, the team is doing the same to her spirit. The two combined have forever changed her life and outlook on her struggles for the better.
“Ignite came with five stars for its rehab program. The four to five days that I have been in rehab, I have been introduced to things that are really beneficial. I really think it's a very good setup. They have everything you would need, and that's very commendable,” Bradford said. “In a setting like this, it's very helpful to have people who have the heart and treat people like you want to be treated.”
Jamie Rodriguez, community liaison at Hospice of the Calumet Area, shared a similar feeling of hope and inspiration to Bradford after watching her take her steps around the facility. Rodriguez left the event feeling confident that when patients come to Ignite for care, they are always in good hands.
“Ignite is a great rehab,” Rodriguez said. “We use this facility as our contract facility, and we have referrals who come here, so we have some patients who are here.”
Petty is also proud of the team who works hard around the clock to give patients the quality treatment they deserve. Without them, stories like Bradford’s wouldn’t be possible, and Petty is looking forward to many stories like Bradford’s to come thanks to all their efforts as they begin this new era working with the Andago® and other robotic technology.
“They deserve recognition – they do an amazing job,” Petty said. “I'm honored to be a part of Ignite. I think Ignite has brought amazing things to Northwest Indiana. I'm very blessed to be a part of that team, and I’m also blessed to work alongside my entire team. All my unit managers, my nursing managers, my line staff – it's an honor to work with them.”
Ignite Medical Resorts continues to bring positive changes to people’s lives across Northwest Indiana and across the country with rapid rehabilitation in a luxury setting. To learn more and schedule your appointment today, please visit ignitemedicalresorts.com.
“Our patients are able to increase their quality of life through rehabilitative services,” Petty said. “It's an honor and a pleasure to serve them.”