Success Story

Mr. DeGiorgi: A Story of Progress and Perseverance

"His biggest goal was simple but deeply meaningful: to eat without pain and regain his independence."

When Mr. DeGiorgi arrived at BridgePoint Continuing Care Hospital at National Harborside in September 2025, he was facing serious challenges after esophageal cancer treatment. Everyday activities that many people take for granted, such as getting dressed, moving safely, using the bathroom, and eating comfortably, had become extremely difficult. At that point, his recovery felt uncertain.

Despite these challenges, Mr. DeGiorgi came with a clear sense of purpose. His biggest goal was simple but deeply meaningful: to eat without pain and regain his independence. With strong determination and the steady support of his family, he began his rehabilitation journey at Harborside Health & Rehabilitation (BridgePoint SNF) in October.

One of his first major hurdles was difficulty swallowing, which made eating uncomfortable and stressful. With focused therapy and consistent practice, he steadily improved. Within weeks, he reached his most important personal goal by significantly reducing pain while eating and learning safe techniques that allowed him to enjoy meals again.

At the same time, therapy focused on helping him regain independence in daily life. Early on, he needed considerable help with basic tasks like dressing and moving safely. Over time, he rebuilt strength, balance, and confidence. By late November, he was performing daily activities on his own and working toward more advanced goals, including getting in and out of a car and handling light household tasks.

Improving mobility was another key milestone. When therapy began, Mr. DeGiorgi was unable to walk independently and needed help with even basic movements. Through steady effort and guided training, he made remarkable progress. By mid November, he was walking more than 350 feet with a walker, exceeding his original goal and approaching his level of independence before his illness. His wife, Virginia, shared that this progress brought him close to how he moved prior to treatment.

Throughout his recovery, Mr. DeGiorgi remained engaged, motivated, and focused on returning to the routines that mattered most to him. By the end of his stay, the change was clear. He had regained independence in daily activities, improved his strength and endurance, and was eating safely and comfortably again.

What began as an uncertain recovery became a powerful success story made possible by Mr. DeGiorgi’s determination, the encouragement of his family, and the dedicated care team at Harborside Health & Rehabilitation. We wish you all the best, Mr. DeGiorgi, and are incredibly proud of how far you have come.