Gene’s Story

Other than visiting newborn grandchildren who were delivered here, Gene and Betty Kruse had never been to Guttenberg Municipal Hospital & Clinics before.

That changed for the couple from Colesburg on July 1st when Betty was assisting Gene into bed and noticed he was very weak and struggling to breathe.

“We called 911 and the ambulance crew suggested we go to Guttenberg Hospital because it was the closest,” said Betty. “Halfway to Guttenberg, a Paramedic met us in Osterdock to treat Gene’s low blood pressure in the ambulance before arriving to the hospital.”

In the GMHC Emergency Department, Hospitalist George Osai, ARNP, and the team immediately began working on Gene. Not only was his blood pressure low, but test results determined Gene was dehydrated and a CT scan revealed two blood clots in his lungs. He was admitted as an inpatient on the Patient Care Unit and after four days transitioned to a Skilled Care patient on the unit.

“I have been so impressed with the people here, so impressed,” exclaimed Gene’s wife, Betty.

In November 2023, Gene was diagnosed with atypical Parkinson’s disease. Atypical Parkinsonian disorders cause muscle stiffness, tremor, and problems with walking/balance and fine motor coordination. “At home, I was stuck in a recliner permanently, only getting up to go the bathroom or bedroom. My whole right side is difficult to move so I just did the best I could,” said Gene.

During his time in Skilled Care, Gene was seen by physical and occupational therapists who taught him a lot of different ways to move. “They guided Gene to use all of his muscles, so they don’t deteriorate so quickly, allowing him to be more independent. They also taught me better ways to move him to save my back,” stated Betty. “They even came to our house for a home safety evaluation and made recommendations to make it easier for Gene to move around. Speech and respiratory therapists also helped Gene with speech, swallowing and breathing difficulties. Each therapist lifted Gene’s spirits so much, they were all fantastic!”

“I thank the Lord that they brought us to Guttenberg,” said Betty. “It was a great experience for both of us.” Gene replied, “Everyone was top-notch!”

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