For Judy Lewis, the art of baking has always been more than just a passion – it’s been a way to bring joy to others. As a professional baker and cake decorator, she knows how to create indulgent treats that delight the senses. But over the past three months, the act of preparing and enjoying a meal has taken on a whole new significance.

In December, Judy suffered a life-altering stroke, and her journey to recovery has been nothing short of miraculous. Though she has no recollection of the events leading up to her stroke, Judy and the dedicated team at Taconic Rehabilitation & Nursing at Ulster continue to marvel at her progress.

After spending a month in the hospital, she was admitted to the facility’s specialized ventilator care unit in Highland, NY. Her husband, Ken, chose Taconic at Ulster for its reputation for excellence and the convenience of being close to home. With other ventilator units 30 or more miles away, having access to this level of care nearby was a game-changer for Judy and her family. “When Judy arrived, she was extremely debilitated and unable to do anything on her own,” explained Therapy Director Patricia L. Williams, MS, CCC-SLP. “She was on a ventilator and couldn’t speak, eat, or move independently. Our team of physical, occupational, and speech therapists set goals, created a customized treatment plan, and then watched her flourish.

But the road to recovery was anything but easy. “At first, I was too scared to try anything,” Judy recalls. “But the therapists encouraged me, and their smiling faces gave me the motivation to push forward.” Her progress was measured in small victories— each one leading to the next milestone. “We took it step by step,” Williams said. “From sitting at the edge of the bed to standing, and eventually climbing stairs. When she conquered the stairs, we knew it was time to start planning for her return home.”

Judy’s determination never wavered. “In the beginning, I had doubts about whether I could ever get better,” she admitted. “But the more I tried, and the more I accomplished, the stronger I felt.” Taconic at Ulster’s ventilator care unit is certified by the New York State Department of Health and staffed by a physician-directed, multidisciplinary team. This includes a board-certified pulmonologist, pulmonary specialists, registered nurses, licensed respiratory care practitioners, and a team of physical, occupational, and speech therapists.

“The ventilator unit at Taconic at Ulster is unique because we specialize in geriatric rehabilitation,” Williams noted. “We understand the complexities of helping aging patients regain their independence so they can successfully and safely return to the community.”

Roadmap to Discharge

From the moment you arrive, our goal is to guide you on a personalized path toward recovery and a safe return home. Our interdisciplinary team — including doctors, nurses, therapists, dietitians, and support staff — works together to design a care plan tailored to your needs. Every step of the way, we focus on maximizing your independence, building strength and confidence, and ensuring a smooth transition back into the community.