Sherry Hashagen was a longtime patient at the MBSH Therapy and Wellness Center before her death. When her husband Richard made a donation to the center in her memory, he and the staff decided to use the funds for a piece of equipment that Sherry would have appreciated. Combining Hashagen's donation with funds from the MBSH Ambassadors, MBSH was able to purchase a PhysioGait Dynamic Unweighting System, says Robin Butts, MBSH Therapy and Wellness manager. 

By off-loading a patient's weight, the equipment helps patients build up weight-bearing tolerance gradually, while also offering a sense of confidence and safety. It also allows the therapist to concentrate on facilitating proper mechanics, weight-shift and functional movement. 

"Without an unweighting system, patients who cannot bear much weight on their legs require several therapists holding and supporting the weight of the patient," says Butts. "The confidence, safety and more focused therapy that the PhysioGait provides results in quicker recovery and return to regular daily activities.

"We would have liked to have a piece of equipment like this to help with Sherry's therapy, so we thought it would be appropriate to use Richard's generous gift to buy something his wife would have appreciated," Butts says.

Hashagen stopped by the center recently to meet with staff and get a look at the new equipment. 

In the picture, Richard Hashagen, seated, is with MBSH Therapy and Wellness Center staff members.