Bedridden Emirati woman on her feet again
Innovative rehabilitation programme at Al Ain hospital helps Zuhoor return to normal life
An Emirati woman who was told she would be bedridden for life is not only on her feet again but is also able to drive thanks to the care she received at NMC ProVita International Medical Centre in Al Ain.
Zuhoor Saeed Al Ameri suffered ‘generalised muscle weakness’ and severe muscle deconditioning following complications after surgery at a hospital. Eight doctors later told her that she would be bedridden for life. Being a kidney transplant recipient only complicated her recovery.
True grit
However, Zuhoor refused to give up and went to NMC ProVita International Medical Centre in Al Ain — a leading provider of post-acute care — last August 30. The doctors there employed a biopsychosocial approach to treat her which included regular medical and multidisciplinary team meetings with the patient and her family. After two months of an intense medical recovery and rehabilitation programme, Zuhoornot made rapid progress and was able to go home by October 25.
Now Zuhoor is not only home, but is also able to drive her own car and lead an independent life. Recounting her relief and delight, Zuhoor said: “I’m amazed to be home. I thought I would never walk again, and now I’ve been cleared to drive to my therapy appointments at the outpatient department managed by NMC ProVita at NMC Medical Centre Al Wadi.”
Zuhoor was all praise for the hospital team. “The nurses, therapists and doctors were great, always available, knowledgeable and very clear when explaining procedures,” she added.
Dr Ahmad Al Khayer, Medical Director of Rehabilitation Services at NMC ProVita, said, “A person’s life may suddenly change. However, he or she can return to be a productive member of society through a highly qualified, organised multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary biopsychosocial rehabilitation approach.”