Bolger Patient and Volunteer Says “It’s a Pleasure to Come Here”

Sometimes, after an injury or a hospital stay, you may need a little extra help getting back to independence.

That was the case for Michael Bojcik. In September 2022, Michael fell and injured his leg during the night. “I had to sleep on the floor because I couldn’t pick myself up,” he said. “One of my daughters came the following morning, and I ended up in Valley Hospital.”

After his release from Valley, Michael came to Bolger Short-Term Rehab for physical therapy. “At that time, I was already familiar with Christian Health,” he said.

Michael’s wife, who had also been a patient at Christian Health, passed away in 2021. After her death, he decided to do something meaningful to give back to the organization that had treated her.

“I felt it would be nice to do something in her honor,” he said. “My kids said, ‘Why don’t you volunteer, Dad?’”

Michael did just that – volunteering at the very gym that would later treat his injuries, wheeling patients from their rooms to their therapy sessions and back.

After Michael’s injury, he knew Bolger Short-Term Rehab was the best choice to help him transition back to wellness. During his two-week stay, he got stronger and improved his balance, flexibility, and mobility with the help of his expert therapists, simple exercises, and their kind, gentle care.

“The therapists worked their magic on me, and now I feel great,” Michael said.

Michael believes the beautiful environment at Bolger, state-of-the-art equipment, and friendliness and expertise of the therapists all contributed to his swift and full recovery.

“Having a lively roommate helped too,” Michael joked. “We had a lot of fun together.”

After his recovery, Michael returned to volunteering at Bolger Short-Term Rehab regularly. He enjoys giving back by helping the people who returned him to wellness as well as the patients in their care. “I came back in January 2023, and I’ve been doing it ever since,” he said. “All of the people are really nice – it’s a pleasure to come here.”

Michael says he would recommend the rehabilitation center to anyone in need of healing physical, occupational, or speech therapy services.

“My experience was terrific,” he said. “They always took very good care of me, the food was good, and I got to know a lot of people here, who I get to enjoy seeing every week now!”

Aside from all the friends Michael has made as a patient and volunteer, he also met a lady friend during his stint in rehab. Carol was also a volunteer who assisted with the patients at Bolger and had recently lost her husband. The two bonded over their shared experience and are thoroughly enjoying each other’s company. “Things just clicked for us,” he said.

Learn More About Bolger Short-Term Rehab

If you need healing physical, occupational, or speech therapy following an injury, surgery, or a hospital stay, Bolger Short-Term Rehab can help you get back to the vibrant, independent life you love. With our state-of-the-art gym, expert team of skilled and friendly therapists, and welcoming community environment, it’s certain you will feel comfortable and cared for as you recover. For more information, please call (201) 848-5855 or visit ChristianHealthNJ.info/ShortTermRehab.

For more information on volunteering at Christian Health, please visit ChristianHealthNJ.info/Volunteer.