John Gillette experienced a large trauma to his abdomen, which required multiple surgeries, drains, wound care, and medical interventions. At one point, John was intubated and placed on the ventilator, a machine to help him breathe.

After his initial treatments, John was referred to Advanced Care Hospital of Montana (ACHM) for complex medical management that included extensive wound care, infectious disease management, and management of his high acuity needs.

“I didn’t know how I was going to take care of myself with all these tubes sticking out of me,” John says. “Coming here was a blessing.

The interdisciplinary medical team provided coordinated care to help John heal. Physicians led the treatments, nurses executed the medical plan, dietitians planned for adequate nutrition, and therapists and aides helped with mobilization. John especially appreciated the housekeeping staff. “They came in every day and talked to me while I was in the hospital,” he says. “They became friends.”

John is ready to get home to his wife and family, and says he wants to return to creating art. One of his many works now is hanging in the hospital’s High Observation Unit as a gift he gave to the staff, reminding everyone how far one person can come with an exceptional medical team and compassionate staff.

“This place is just so amazing,” John says. “I don’t know how I can ever repay anyone here for what they’ve done for me. I want to continue to heal and have a good life.”