Carol has called Traverse City home since the early 1970s. After nearly 43 years working as a Purchasing Buyer in the operating room at Munson Medical Center, she is preparing for retirement next month. With a career spent in healthcare, Carol knows what quality care looks like, and she knows when she sees it.

Not long ago, Carol woke up with a cramp in her left leg that would not go   away. As an avid walker, she tried to push through it, but the pain returned the next morning even stronger. After a visit to her primary care provider and another difficult morning, Carol went to the emergency room, where doctors discovered a bulging disc in her back. She spent one week at Munson Medical Center before coming directly to Grand Traverse Pavilions for rehabilitation on Maple Unit.

Carol chose Grand Traverse Pavilions because she had already experienced the level of care the team provides when her husband received services here.

“I was so impressed with the staff when my husband was here,” Carol said,  “They pay attention to the details. Did you know they clean the carpets and change the curtains when someone leaves? That says a lot about how much they care about the environment and the people who live here.”

That same attention carried through her own experience.

“Brice remembered me from when my husband was here. Staff remembered   my name. That meant so much to me. You feel like a person here, not just a patient.”

Now, Carol is working closely with the therapy team to rebuild her strength and independence. In occupational therapy, Michael guides her through everyday activities, including practicing safe movement at the sink. With the support of a gait belt and careful instruction, these small but meaningful moments are helping Carol regain confidence in her mobility and daily routine.

“The therapy here is amazing,” Carol shared. “I especially love the aqua therapy. They have taught me so much, and everything is helping me get back to being independent.”

As Carol prepares to leave Maple Unit, she is not saying goodbye to the team. She plans to continue her progress through outpatient therapy at the Wellness Center clinic, where aquatic therapy will remain an important part of her recovery.

She is especially grateful for the Wellness Center team.

“Mike, Amy, and Matt are incredible. Everyone here truly wants to see you succeed.”

For Carol, choosing Grand Traverse Pavilions felt like choosing a team she could trust, a place where skill, compassion, and attention to detail come together to help people move forward with confidence.

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