Concierge Name: Yosef Unger
Patient Name: George O.
Patient Age: 58
Admission Date: 12/04/2025
Admitted From: St. John’s Riverside
Discharge Date: 01/07/2026
Discharge To: Home
Length of Stay: 34 days
Reason for Stay: Shingles
How Did This Patient Hear About Sans Souci: St. John’s Hospital Staff
Details of Experience:
George’s journey began on Thanksgiving when he went to his brother-in-law’s house for dinner. During the meal, his sister noticed something was off and insisted they seek medical attention. On the way to urgent care, they diverted to St. John’s Hospital. Initial examinations suggested stroke-like symptoms, but further testing revealed shingles along his abdomen wrapping around to his back. The doctors explained that shingles can affect the brain, leading to speech and motor skill impairment. George experienced memory issues and felt like he was in a fog, knowing something needed to be fixed. Because he was contagious, George was placed in isolation and started on IV antibiotics. Within 72 hours, he began responding well to treatment. After seven days in the hospital, he transitioned to oral antibiotics. Although he was improving, George didn’t want to go home yet; he wanted to regain endurance and balance. His sister guided him through the next steps, ultimately choosing Sans Souci based on the hospital’s recommendation, its proximity, and its reputation for strong therapy programs.
George arrived at Sans Souci still in a fog and unable to recall his first day clearly. Initially, he remained in isolation on the first floor, but the staff ensured he was comfortable and monitored for pain or discomfort, even though he surprisingly had none from the shingles. Therapy became the cornerstone of his recovery. He received therapy every day, even on Saturdays when the therapist had enough time. The team was diligent about his medications and checked in regularly.
When George first arrived, he could only walk about 10 feet with partial moderate assistance and relied on a wheelchair for mobility. With the help of dedicated therapists like Allie, who balanced patience with gentle encouragement, and Nana, who was equally fantastic, George began making strides. He recalls, “Mack pushed me hard, just as I wanted, and Melvin, who was ‘top in his field,’ guided me through the final stages of therapy.”
By discharge, on January 7th, George was walking fully independently with a rolling walker. For home, the team ordered a rollator for outdoor use and longer distances, and set him up with PT and OT twice a week, plus a nurse visit once a week.
George speaks highly of the entire Sans Souci team. “I have no complaints and no drawbacks,” he says. “It’s very busy, and everyone is always running around making sure everyone is doing great.” He recalls the professionalism and kindness of the nurses, even if he can’t remember all their names, and praises the clean, welcoming environment. The recreation department, led by Omar, made the holidays special with decorations, a Christmas party, and daily newsletters filled with interesting content and schedules. These touches helped ease the difficulty of being away from family. George especially loved DJ, the therapy dog, who never failed to bring smiles to residents.
While George enjoyed his stay, he was eager to return home, and he left feeling stronger, more confident, and deeply appreciative of the care he received. He even inspired his roommate along the way, proving that positivity and perseverance can be contagious, too.
George’s story is a testament to resilience and determination. From isolation to independence and confidence, he embraced every challenge with courage and optimism. His progress reflects not only his own hard work but also the dedication of the Sans Souci team. We wish George continued success in his recovery and hope he continues to inspire others with his strength and positive spirit.