Stroke Survivor Earns Southwest's Hope and Spirit Award
06/24/2008
Southwest Washington Medical Center is proud to announce the winner of the 2008 Hope and Spirit Award.
Minnie Groom, 82, of Vancouver is a stroke survivor who has shown tremendous strength and courage to overcome the debilitating consequences of her illness.
Miss Minnie, as she is fondly known by Southwest rehabilitation staff, suffered a stroke eight years ago. She lost the use of her left arm and leg, and received the prognosis that she would never walk again. With unwavering determination and commitment, Miss Minnie beat the odds and learned to walk again. And to this day, she continues working every day to regain the use of her left hand.
Minnie was one of the first patients in the Northwest to use an exclusive therapy for stroke survivors called SaeboFlex, a spring-loaded finger extension system that is shown to improve arm and hand motor function even as many as 20 years after a stroke. Through her work—and great success—with SaeboFlex, Minnie is an inspiration to other stroke survivors and proves the power of hope and spirit when facing great obstacles.
Southwest created the Hope and Spirit Award as part of the hospital’s celebration of 150 years of service. The award recognizes and acknowledges Southwest patients past and present who through their deeds, actions and goodwill inspire others to overcome major physical or mental challenges in their lives. Minnie Groom received the Hope and Spirit Award at a special Southwest celebration on the hospital’s birthday of June 7th.
