Hospital happenings

When Chad Hardee arrived at Tidelands Health Rehabilitation Hospital at Little River, an affiliate of Encompass Health, he couldn’t stand up, raise a fork to his mouth to eat, shower or do anything for himself.

On Friday – 18 days after arriving - the determined Chad walked out of the hospital on his own to a limousine and a cheering section of hospital team members and dear friends, who slyly organized the grand sendoff – complete with a law enforcement escort to his Conway home.

Diagnosed with COVID-19 in January, the 47-year-old civil engineer at the South Carolina Department of Transportation endured a grueling battle to recover that included stays at multiple hospitals. COVID-19 pneumonia attacked Chad’s body, forcing him on a ventilator and leading to a series of other serious health conditions.

His recovery has been remarkable. On Friday, the father of three was eager to head home with his wife, Jean Marie.

We are proud of you, Chad!