A Journey of Transformation

By Laura Wehlitz, DPT, DOR, The Cove at La Jolla, CA

Earlier this year, The Cove welcomed Arlene, a spirited New Yorker who found herself unexpectedly far from home. While visiting her daughter in San Diego, Arlene was discovered on the ground and admitted to the hospital with multiple infections and a painful Baker’s cyst in her knee. When she arrived in our community, she was dependent on staff for nearly all of her activities of daily living and completely bedridden.

At first, Arlene had little desire to get out of bed. Her injuries, paired with a discouraged outlook, made mobility feel impossible. But through the persistence, encouragement, and creativity of both Physical and Occupational Therapy, something began to change. With each small gain came renewed confidence. Over the course of three months, Arlene transformed her mindset and her abilities — progressing from total dependence to walking independently with a walker and regaining the ability to care for herself.

The true victory came when Arlene was strong enough to return to her home in New York City. Not long after, she underwent a successful knee replacement and shared with us that she is now moving better than she has in years. In a touching gesture of gratitude, Arlene even sent the Rehab team a box of authentic New York bagels — a gift that reminded us of the deep connections built during recovery.

Arlene’s journey is one we continue to celebrate at The Cove. Her determination, paired with the guidance of our Rehab team, exemplifies the heart of therapy: helping patients reclaim independence, restore quality of life, and reintegrate confidently into their communities.