June 16, 2026 — Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Fort Smith is celebrating a remarkable patient. 100-year-old Delema Eldridge achieved a lifelong dream and returned home independently following her inpatient rehabilitation care.
Eldridge, who turned 100 in November, fulfilled her wish to ride in the sidecar of a Harley-Davidson on Tuesday — an experience originally planned as part of her birthday celebration this past November. However, a series of falls and increasing weakness delayed those plans and led to a brief hospital stay.
After a two-day stay in an acute care unit, Eldridge was admitted to Encompass Health Fort Smith. Her family anticipated she would require placement in a long-term care facility. Instead, after just 13 days of inpatient rehabilitation, Eldridge regained the strength and function needed to return home independently.
During her stay, the hospital's interdisciplinary team developed a customized rehabilitation program focused on improving her strength, balance and overall functional abilities.
“Her positive attitude and determination were crucial to her recovery, evident in both her physical progress and her determined attitude,” said Michael Pharis, therapy team lead at Encompass Health Fort Smith.
In addition to meeting her clinical goals, Eldridge's progress allowed her care team and family to revisit her delayed birthday wish. The celebratory sidecar ride marked both a personal milestone and a symbol of her regained independence.
“Waving goodbye, the atmosphere in our hospital felt brighter, reflecting the warmth and determination she shared with us,” said Cyndi Anderson, business development director at Encompass Health Fort Smith. “Her inspiring journey reminds everyone that life is full of adventure and joy, regardless of age. We eagerly await news of her future adventures.”
Eldridge's story highlights the impact of individualized rehabilitation care and the role it plays in helping patients return to their highest level of independence.