An Interview with Mr. Sansana Ketthanom: A Service User at KIN Stroke Rehabilitation Center

When the patient first arrived at KIN Stroke Rehabilitation Center, he was unable to perform daily activities independently. During the first month, he practiced sitting up and maintaining balance. In the following month, he began gait training. By months four and five, his walking had become more stable. He is now able to walk more confidently with support from a physical therapy assistant.

Mr. Sansana, how did you learn about KIN?

I was receiving treatment at Siriraj Hospital. When I was about to return home, there was no one available to stay with me. My wife and son searched online and found “KIN.” After researching the center, they felt that this was the best place for me. I have now stayed here for six months. 

How have you felt during your stay at KIN?

I have improved. Since staying here, I have regained the ability to walk. 

What was your condition like before coming here?

I had no strength at all on the left side of my body. 

Were you able to walk before coming to KIN? 

No, I could not walk at all. My body was very weak.

How have you progressed after staying here for six months?

 I can walk much more now. I have also practiced going up and down stairs and can manage toileting. From now on, I will probably need to continue practicing at home.

You can now take care of yourself to a certain extent and are ready to return home, correct?

Yes, I can return home. My wife has just retired, so she will be able to help care for me.

Is your physical condition now ready for returning home?

Yes. I do not want my wife to become too tired. She has retired and should have time to rest, so I need to help myself as much as possible. I must remain committed to my rehabilitation and try to live as independently and normally as possible.

I am extremely grateful to KIN, the physicians, nurses, and all the staff members who cared for me and helped me regain as much of my normal life as possible.

The physicians provided attentive care, and I remained committed throughout the program. I never missed a single physical therapy session. I devoted my energy and determination to regaining as much independence as possible. Today, I can walk much better. For this interview, I walked from my room upstairs to the room downstairs. I did not use a wheelchair. I walked downstairs using a three-legged cane. My condition has improved significantly. I will still need to make some adjustments at home and continue practicing. I am very grateful to KIN.