Kathy’s Story: From Post-Surgical Weakness to Functional Mobility

A group photo taken in the Rockwell City Physical Therapy department at Stewart Memorial Hospital & Clinics shows Kathy Hammen seated on a NuStep exercise machine on the left and Jill Birks standing beside her on the right. The setting is a clean, professional rehabilitation space with exercise equipment visible, reflecting a welcoming and supportive environment focused on physical therapy and patient recovery.

For Kathy Hammen, orthopedic and spine challenges have been part of life for many years. She has undergone both knee replacements, four back surgeries, and a left shoulder replacement.

Before her most recent spinal surgery, even walking had become a struggle.

“I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis, and my quality of life just wasn’t there anymore,” Kathy said.

Long before surgery, Kathy began working with Jill Birks, PT, MSPT, ATC, and the physical therapy team at Stewart Memorial in Rockwell City. Together, they focused on preparing her body for surgery and setting realistic goals for recovery.

“They helped me set goals and gave me things to work on before surgery,” Kathy said. “They send home exercise programs so I’m able to do my homework. It helps me know what I need to do to keep myself healthy.”

Following an extensive thoracic and lumbar fusion, Kathy faced unexpected setbacks. She became very weak after surgery and suffered a fall at home that resulted in a fractured knee. After spending time in a nursing facility, she returned home wearing a knee immobilizer and a back brace while relying on a walker for mobility.

While the surgery relieved much of her pain, recovery presented new challenges.

“After surgery your pain is gone, but then you realize how much you have to relearn,” Kathy said.

The biggest obstacle was rebuilding strength.

“The weakness and lack of strength were the hardest parts,” she recalled.

Physical therapy focused on helping Kathy regain the skills needed for everyday life. Sessions included strengthening exercises, balance and mobility training, and functional movements that would allow her to safely return to daily activities.

Through more than 30 physical therapy visits, Kathy steadily improved her strength, confidence, and independence. Today, she can walk most distances without an assistive device but may use a cane or walker for longer distances.

“Kathy was so incredibly weak from limited mobility for an extended time before surgery,” Jill said. “Progress toward her goals was slow but steady. We progressed from simple seated and lying exercises to standing activities and eventually to dynamic balance exercises. Strengthening her whole body was necessary for her to reach her full potential.”

Most importantly, Kathy has been able to return to activities that bring her joy.

“One of my goals was to get back to doing the things I enjoy most, playing fetch with my rescue dogs and working in my garden,” Kathy said.

“When I had my shoulder replaced in March, I was so worried about my arm that I didn’t think about anything else. You don’t realize how connected the entire body is.”

Kathy credits the physical therapy team for helping her navigate each stage of recovery.

“Everything they do helps me. Sometimes it takes my entire therapy episode to accomplish my goals,” she said. “They do know their stuff down here, and I am very thankful for that. They are good to me from when I walk in to when I walk out.”

For Jill Birks, PT, MSPT, ATC, and the rehabilitation team, Kathy’s journey reflects the power of preparation, perseverance, and personalized care. Through dedication and hard work, Kathy has regained much of her independence and continues making progress toward the life she wants.

“Kathy’s positive attitude has made her a joy to work with,” Jill said. “A lot of people with her challenges would have given up. Kathy’s results are proof that hard work pays off.”

Derrick Henkenius Named Q1 Exceptional Experience Award Recipient at Stewart Memorial Hospital & Clinics

Stewart Memorial Hospital & Clinics is proud to recognize Derrick Henkenius as the recipient of the Exceptional Experience Award for the first quarter. This award honors team members who go above and beyond to provide outstanding care, deliver exceptional patient experiences, and demonstrate professionalism and expertise in their work.Derrick was nominated by Jodi Broesder, who highlighted his dedication to patient-centered care, strong communication skills, and commitment to achieving meaningful outcomes for his patients.
While receiving treatment for an ankle injury, Jodi shared that Derrick took the time to truly listen, ask thoughtful questions, and understand her goals for recovery. He created a realistic and clearly communicated treatment plan, helping set expectations and building confidence throughout the healing process.“Derrick validated my injury and helped me understand that healing cannot be rushed,” Jodi noted. “He explained each step in a way that made sense and helped me see the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind everything we were doing.”
Throughout her therapy, Derrick consistently provided detailed, easy-to-understand explanations about exercises and recovery techniques. His ability to educate patients not only improved understanding but also empowered confidence and engagement in the healing process.
In addition to delivering exceptional patient care, Derrick also demonstrated strong leadership and mentorship. During treatment sessions, he worked closely with a student, modeling effective instruction in stretching, strengthening, and mobility while emphasizing proper healing techniques. His ability to teach and lead reflects his deep knowledge and passion for his field.
One aspect of care that stood out was Derrick’s use of dry needling. His expertise and confidence in this technique played a significant role in recovery, helping to improve flexibility, reduce inflammation, decrease muscle tension, and restore function.
“His dedication to his patients and passion for his work truly make a lasting difference,” Jodi shared.
Derrick’s commitment to excellence, patient education, and compassionate care embodies the values of Stewart Memorial Hospital & Clinics. His impact is felt not only by his patients but also by his colleagues and the future professionals he mentors.
Stewart Memorial is honored to recognize Derrick Henkenius for his outstanding contributions and the exceptional experience he provides every day.

Stewart Memorial Honors Ann Riat as February Path to Excellence Awardee

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is proud to recognize Ann Riat, PT, as the February Path to Excellence Awardee. This recognition highlights employees who demonstrate the hospital’s core values while showing dedication and professional growth.

Ann has been part of Stewart Memorial for 19 years and brings 26 years of experience in physical therapy to her work, specializing in rehabilitation services for men, women, and pediatric patients, including pelvic health care. Her expertise provides a valuable service in the region and helps patients avoid traveling long distances for specialized care.

After her clinical experiences in PT school, Ann knew she wanted to work in a rural hospital. She learned about Stewart Memorial and decided to visit. Once she saw the facility and met the staff, she knew it would be a great fit.

Ann began her career as a staff therapist and has stayed in that role out of her passion for direct patient care. She says compassion, teamwork, and communication guide her work. She also highlighted how her team adapted during the transition from the old rehab space to the new state-of-the-art rehab center. The new facility includes private treatment rooms, including one specifically for pelvic health services, which patients appreciate.

Stewart Memorial has supported Ann’s professional growth through specialized training in pelvic health. She is grateful for that support and takes pride in helping patients in her community receive high-level care close to home.

Stewart Memorial congratulates Ann Riat on this recognition and thanks her for her dedication to patient care, professional growth, and excellence in rehabilitation services.

Derrick Henkenius, DPT, Named Q3 Culture Champion at Stewart Memorial

Derrick Henkenius, DPT, Named Q3 Culture Champion at Stewart Memorial Community Hospital

Stewart Memorial is proud to announce Derrick Henkenius, Doctor of Physical Therapy, as the recipient of the Culture Champion Award for the third quarter. This honor recognizes team members who go above and beyond to exemplify the hospital’s core values of compassion, integrity, excellence, and community service.

Derrick was nominated by Branden Roberts, who praised his unwavering dedication to both his patients and his colleagues. As a physical therapist, Derrick consistently delivers compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals of all ages. He is known for making patients feel welcomed, supported, and empowered, regardless of how busy his schedule may be. On even the most demanding days, he maintains a calm and steady presence and never hesitates to help others.

“Derrick never complains, never turns down an opportunity to help, and always makes time for others, patients and coworkers alike,” said Roberts. “He consistently goes above and beyond without ever seeking recognition.”

Roberts noted that Derrick has picked up coworkers’ weekend shifts on short notice simply because it was the right thing to do. He gives generously of his time and regularly performs small, thoughtful acts of kindness that often go unnoticed. A recent example includes picking up lunch for several coworkers even though he had not ordered anything for himself.

Outside of his work at the hospital, Derrick is deeply involved in the Lake City community. He volunteers as an assistant coach for local football and track teams, supports little league sports, and often serves as a referee. Whether it is helping a neighbor move something heavy, offering a ride, or stepping in as a last-minute volunteer, Derrick is someone people can always count on.

His work ethic, humility, and commitment to serving others are qualities that reflect the very best of Stewart Memorial. Derrick not only upholds the hospital’s mission – he lives it out daily in every interaction.

We are honored to recognize Derrick Henkenius as our Q3 Culture Champion and thank him for the outstanding impact he has on our patients, our team, and our community.

Ann Riat Named 2025 Q3 Exceptional Experience Award Winner

Stewart Memorial is proud to recognize Ann Riat, PT, MSPT, as the 2025 Q3 Exceptional Experience Award Winner for her outstanding dedication to patient care.

Nominated by Ashley Mork, Ann went above and beyond when a Storm Lake clinic contacted the team with an urgent request for therapeutic ultrasound treatment for a patient suffering from mastitis. Although the rehab team had not treated this condition before, Ann quickly researched the proper settings and arranged to see the patient on her own time that Saturday, just before a holiday weekend.

The patient, who had been in pain for over two weeks, received timely relief and compassionate care thanks to Ann’s initiative. Her actions not only impacted this patient’s experience but also helped pave the way for future treatment of similar cases.

Ann’s dedication and compassion exemplify the mission of Stewart Memorial and the spirit of the Exceptional Experience Award.

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital Celebrates Recovery Journey of Pam Laney During Patient Experience Week

As part of Patient Experience Week, Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is shining a spotlight on the remarkable care provided by its Physical Therapy Department and sharing the inspiring recovery story of Pam Laney, a patient who has made incredible progress after a serious health setback.

In October 2020, Pam was diagnosed with a rare and debilitating autoimmune disease called Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (AIDP), also known as Guillain-Barré Syndrome. The condition, which attacks the electrical conductor sheaths around the nerves, caused severe impairment to her motor and sensory functions, leading to paralysis from the neck down. In Pam’s case, the disease progressed to Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP), a more long-term form of the disorder where symptoms persist beyond a few months.

“I was told I had a 90% chance of not walking again,” Pam recalls. Despite this grim prognosis, she chose to remain hopeful and continued her rehabilitation at Stewart Memorial’s Physical Therapy Department.

Pam’s journey toward recovery began with the unwavering support of Kay, a physical therapist at Stewart Memorial. “Kay was always encouraging and willing to try everything to help me,” Pam shared. “She explained everything thoroughly and was always there to motivate me, saying, ‘You’re doing good, keep going.’” Kay’s personalized approach was instrumental in helping Pam regain both her physical strength and emotional resilience.

At the start of her recovery, Pam faced numerous challenges, including standing and supporting her own weight. “The hardest part was getting my legs strong enough to hold me up when I stood,” Pam explained. But with persistence, patience, and the support of the team at Stewart Memorial, Pam began to see real progress. “When I first realized I could transfer from my wheelchair to a chair without a sideboard, that’s when I knew I was making real progress,” she said.

Pam’s rehabilitation plan involved physical therapy three times a week, and with each session, she grew stronger. Today, she can walk with the assistance of a cane—a huge achievement from when she first arrived at Stewart Memorial. “Walking with assistance has been the most rewarding part of my journey,” Pam says. “I want to be as strong as I was before I got sick, and I’ve learned a lot about what I need to work on moving forward.”

Pam’s ongoing recovery is fueled by her determination to regain full independence. “It’s taught me to appreciate the things I should have been working on before I got sick,” she reflected. “Now, I continue to work hard every day, and I want to help others understand that there is hope, even when things seem impossible.”

Pam encourages others facing their own health challenges to stay positive. “Be upbeat, don’t let it get you down,” she advises. “With the right support from your family, friends, and physical therapists, you’ll get through it. The energy at Stewart Memorial is so positive, and it really helps you believe that you can get better.”

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is incredibly proud of the exceptional work done by its Physical Therapy Department and the life-changing impact it has on the patients it serves. As part of Patient Experience Week, the hospital remains committed to providing patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual receives the support and encouragement they need to recover and thrive.

For more information about physical therapy services at Stewart Memorial Community Hospital, visit www.stewartmemorial.org or call (712) 464-4244.