Army Veteran triumphs over health crisis with help from VA CLC

What began as a complex heart surgery ended in a life-threatening infection, leaving him bedridden and uncertain about his future. But thanks to the compassionate team at the Community Living Center (CLC) in Big Spring, Texas, the 77-year-old Veteran is on his feet again, stronger, more confident, and ready to return home.

Inside the halls of the West Texas VA Health Care System’s (WTVAHCS) CLC, healing doesn’t just happen—it’s built one step, one task, and one day at a time. Designed as a bridge between hospitalization and home, the CLC provides short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and restorative therapies for Veterans recovering from surgery, illness, or injury.

McDonald’s recovery through the CLC is a powerful example of how that mission transforms lives.

A medical crisis
McDonald, who served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971, had long relied on VA health care. Earlier this year, he underwent surgery in San Angelo to correct atrial fibrillation, a serious heart rhythm disorder. While the procedure itself was successful, McDonald soon developed sepsis, a dangerous bloodstream infection that rapidly weakened him.

Unable to sit up, walk, or even stand, McDonald was transferred to the CLC at the George H. O’Brien, Jr. VA Medical Center where staff immediately prepared a tailored recovery plan.

Nancy Brunson, Nurse Manager at the CLC, explained that McDonald required immediate care upon arrival due to the severity of his infection and recent surgery. She noted that his recovery began the moment he entered the facility.

Personalized, team-based recovery
Every Veteran admitted to the CLC receives a personalized care plan crafted by an interdisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, therapists, dietitians, social workers, and recreation specialists. The team looks beyond medical diagnoses to support the whole person, focusing on what matters most: restoring function, purpose, and independence.

“From the moment I got here, they treated me very well,” McDonald said. “I was a mess. I couldn’t move across a room without getting tired. Now, I can move without a wheelchair.”

Through intensive physical and occupational therapy, McDonald gradually rebuilt his strength. Physical therapy focused on improving balance, endurance, and mobility, while occupational therapy helped him regain the skills needed for daily living, such as dressing, grooming, and even preparing meals.

The staff also employed adaptive equipment and real-world simulations to help McDonald prepare for life at home—something he now looks forward to with determination.

The will to heal

McDonald was determined not to spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair and that drive, became a powerful motivator throughout his recovery. From the day he arrived at the CLC, he said the staff gave him hope and encouraged him to progress from using a wheelchair to a walker, restoring his independence. McDonald credits both the care team, and the emotional support of friends, for helping him push through difficult days.

A message from a close friend served as further inspiration: “I wish you’d hurry up and come back home … I miss my good friend.” It reminded him of what was waiting for him beyond the walls of the hospital.

Now, after three months of rehabilitation, McDonald is just days away from going home, whole and healthy.

A model of Veteran-centered care
While McDonald’s recovery is remarkable, his story is one of many at the CLC. Veterans from across West Texas come to the facility for stroke recovery, recovery from joint replacements, hospice care, or severe infections—each with a unique path back to independence.

“Our mission is to empower Veterans,” Brunson said. “Whether they go home or move on to another stage of care, we want them to know they’re not alone on this journey.”

With updated therapy equipment, ongoing staff training, and a Whole Health approach that supports the mind, body, and spirit, WTVAHCS CLC remains committed to excellence in rehabilitative care.

Ready for the next chapter
For McDonald, the progress is personal and powerful.

“I’m ready to get back home,” he said with a smile. “Thanks to everyone here, I’m finally strong enough to do it.”