Exceptional Care by Wellness Center Staff

Ann Holt is no stranger to the staff at the Petersen Family Wellness Center in Harlan. Ann visits the Wellness Center twice a day five days a week, and once a day on weekends, to walk, lift weights, and ride the stationary bike. “I have been trying to lose some weight and just be healthier,” she said.

One day in August 2024, Ann was walking at the Wellness Center while talking on the phone to her daughter, Heidi, who lives in Las Vegas. “We were talking about my upcoming birthday, and she and my son, Adam, were planning on visiting.”

Ann said she was on the back side of the track, when her daughter noticed a change in her speech pattern. “She asked what was wrong, and told me I was stuttering.” Ann said her feet felt heavy. “I couldn’t take a step.” Her daughter told her she needed help right away. Ann rounded the corner, and saw PFWC Housekeeper Sharon Schwartz. The women know each other, as Sharon had taken care of Ann’s mother when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Ann stated, “I remember reaching out to grab Sharon, and her helping me sit down.”

While Sharon kept Heidi on the line, she dialed 911 from her own phone. Clara Mages and Ava Frederick, Harlan Community High School Students and Wellness Center employees, began asking Ann questions. “They asked if I knew what the date and year was, who was president, everything a nurse would have asked in that situation,” she said.

When Ann didn’t know the answers to some of the questions, Sharon knew something was very wrong. “She was clammy and pale, and just wasn’t her normal self,” Sharon stated. “I was going to make sure we took care of her.”

911 arrived and Ann was taken by ambulance to Myrtue Medical Center, and Sharon made sure to meet her there. “I care about her and wanted to make sure she was okay.”

Ann feels fortunate and beyond grateful to have been at the Wellness Center when her medical emergency happened and got the assistance she needed right away. “Without them being there and knowing what to do and what to ask, I probably wouldn’t be here. I was lucky to be at the right place at the right time,” Ann exclaimed. “Those three girls deserve an award!”

Sharon said the staff at the Wellness Center is trained in Basic Life Support and CPR, and Director Todd Alberti has told them to focus on the people who visit them. “He’s constantly telling us to watch the people and keep an eye on the track, so we try to pay extra attention to what is going on,” she said. While client’s health emergencies are not common, they do happen, Sharon said. “We have employees with walkie talkies monitoring the track and the equipment in case something like this happens.”

Ann is now feeling much better, and is back to working out at the Wellness Center. Her family came back to see her for her birthday, and her children met Sharon. “This family is awesome,” Sharon said. “They were so grateful. They thanked us for taking care of their mom.”

Although Ann’s situation might not have been classified as a complete stroke, it’s crucial to treat all stroke-like symptoms as emergencies. Do not wait to see if they resolve on their own. Timely evaluation, within 60 minutes, is essential to determine the cause and receive the necessary care.

Swift action can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term complications. Recognizing the signs of a stroke quickly — such as sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty seeing — is vital. Remember, acting F.A.S.T. can make all the difference. Encourage loved ones to learn these signs and seek immediate medical attention if they suspect a stroke. Early intervention can save lives and enhance recovery, emphasizing the importance of being informed and prepared.