Sixty-nine-year-old Petelo Viliami is a farmer who enjoys growing vegetables, fruits, and spending times with his family. This summer, a month after experiencing an amputation below his left knee, Petelo fell. A visit to the doctor revealed a tumor in his right knee, leading to surgery for its removal. Unfortunately, the procedure resulted in several complications, including sepsis and bacteremia, which is the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. Following these complications, Petelo was unable to walk or support himself.

Petelo was referred for inpatient rehabilitation to Central Utah Rehabilitation (CUR), a 22-bed rehabilitation unit within Utah Valley Specialty Hospital in Provo, Utah. He was fitted for a prosthetic leg and began therapy to learn to walk again.

Throughout his treatment, Petelo encountered challenges, including persistent pain in his knee and a reliance on assistance from others to perform daily tasks. “Despite the pain, I decided in my heart that I was going to walk again,” Petelo says. The most memorable milestone during his hospital stay was when he was able to walk unassisted, a significant achievement that reignited his hope and motivation.

After 17 days at CUR, Petelo was ready to go home. He left not only able to walk, but he also gained a renewed sense of hope and independence.

Reflecting on his journey, Petelo says, “I’m very grateful for reaching out to the light of this new stage of my life. I have nothing but positive things to say about the hospital. Thank you to every one of you. You have been wonderful and encouraging.”