Concierge Name: Yosef Unger
Patient Name: Julio V.
Patient Age: 71
Admission Date: 09/23/2025
Admitted From: White Plains Hospital
Discharge Date: 03/25/2026
Discharge To: Home
Length of Stay: 183 Days
Reason for Stay: Right Leg BKA Amputation
How Did This Patient Hear About Sans Souci? White Plains Hospital Staff

Details of Experience
Julio’s journey began with a difficult battle against poor circulation and a severe infection of gangrene. The condition took a heavy toll on his health; he suffered from high fevers, lost 45 pounds, and eventually lost the ability to walk. On September 3rd, a home health aide discovered Julio in a delirious state and insisted that he seek immediate medical attention. Upon arriving at White Plains Hospital, Julio underwent a procedure to clear his veins. However, the damage was extensive. The following day, doctors observed that his foot was swollen and black, leading to the difficult news that an amputation was necessary. After the surgery and a two-week recovery period in the hospital, the case manager recommended Sans Souci Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, noting its reputation for a “fantastic amputee program” where many of the hospital’s patients find success.

When Julio first arrived at Sans Souci, he felt a deep sense of depression. He struggled with the fear that he would never walk again and felt as though his life as he knew it was over. However, his outlook began to shift thanks to the compassion of an aide on the first floor. Although he does not recall her name, Julio is forever thankful for her encouragement. She sat with him and provided the hope he desperately needed, assuring him that while it would take time, he had a future to look forward to. The staff’s excellent communication helped Julio start his journey on the right path.

When Julio joined the Sans Souci Rehab program, his status post right BKA (below the knee amputation) presented as non-weight bearing with a significant decline from prior independent level, requiring max assist for transfers and variable assist (1-2 person) for toileting and mobility. As Julio transitioned to the second floor, he faced a setback when his first prosthetic leg caused his wound site to reopen. To heal the wound site, the rehab team applied shortwave diathermy to the residual limb post staple removal to promote circulation and facilitate wound healing. During this time, Lidia Legros, the Charge Nurse of the second floor, became a pillar of support. Lidia checked on Julio daily to monitor his healing and kept both him and his family thoroughly informed of his progress. The rehabilitation staff demonstrated immense passion and encouragement throughout his stay. On days when Julio didn’t feel well and preferred to stay in his room, the therapists would bring the equipment to him, ensuring he never missed a session of his vital therapy.

Julio’s journey was further supported by Todd Schaffhauser and Dennis Oehler, CareRite’s Paralympic gold medal winner, as they have done for many others at Sans Souci. Todd and Dennis “held his hand” through the process, providing invaluable mentorship and ensuring he understood every step of his recovery.

Julio credits the dedicated team at Sans Souci for helping him reclaim his independence. His experience with the clinical and nursing staff was so impactful that he now advocates for the facility to others. “Go to the second floor and ask to speak to the charge nurse,” Julio says. “She will take care of you and make sure that everything is good.”

At discharge, on March 31, 2026, Julio achieved independence with functional mobility and ambulation. He left using a prosthesis and was discharged home with appropriate support in place. We are incredibly proud of Julio’s perseverance and wish him continued strength and success as he returns home!