Dianne's Story

COVID-19

"They'll tell you in physical therapy there are baby steps. You go up, but don't be surprised if you have backward process. And then you go up again, because that's part of the process. But because I've had a very strong will to get better, I've been getting stronger and stronger all the time."

Those were the sentiments of Dianne Shields, a dialysis nurse who contracted COVID-19. On April 28, Dianne went to the emergency room when her temperature spiked to 103.7○F and was admitted, intubated and on a ventilator for 12 days. Upon waking up, Dianne had pneumonia and suffered from COVID shakes, deconditioning and weakness. She was transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation hospital on May 31 where she spent 33 days before being released.

As part of our Recovery and Reconditioning Program, Dianne continues to heal from after-effects of COVID-19 through physical and occupational therapy with HealthWorks Rehabilitation in Lansdale. Dianne is working on enhancing her balance, stability and endurance as well as improving her grip strength, dexterity and fine motor skills.

Dianne is working hard toward her goal of going back to work and credits her therapy team for their help thus far.

"People come here (to therapy) with pain and your brain is the biggest part of your nervous system," said Dianne. "If your brain is negative and you have pain, that's not going to cut it. If you have a positive attitude, that helps you to remain calm, work through the pain. I've been very grateful for everyone that’s been helping me. And that helps me to get better."

Dianne COVID Survivor Patient Success Story Video
Dianne Shields
“They’ll tell you in physical therapy there are baby steps. You go up, but don’t be surprised if you have backward process. And then you go up again, because that’s part of the process. But because I’ve had a very strong will to get better, I’ve been getting stronger and stronger all the time.”

Read More Patient Success Stories