Families Bond after Meeting in Southeast Missouri Hospital's ICU

Shelby Spencer of Cape Girardeau and Ruth Morgan of East Prairie didn't know each other until a few weeks ago. But today the similar health challenges they face have forged a special friendship

The families of the two Southeast Missouri Hospital patients met in the Intensive Care Unit and have bonded during Shelby's and Ruth's Hospital stay. "There is a lot of camaraderie between families in the ICU," notes physical therapist Jean Schwarz, PT.

Ruth had surgery due to an aneurysm in her aorta on Feb. 18 and Shelby underwent femoral bypass surgery on Feb. 19. They started therapy in the Cardiothoracic Unit (CTU) on the following Monday and continued their therapy in Inpatient Rehab in late February.

Shelby's daughter, Sherry Hileman of North Carolina, says she initially felt scared and alone, but Ruth's family was very comforting.

"Ruth has a very loving, caring family," says Sherry. "They included me in their group. We watch out for each other."

Ruth's daughter, Sheila Collins, says it's been a pleasure having Sherry around and hopes to keep in touch.

"Sherry and I have eaten, fallen asleep and talked with each other," says Sheila. "It's been one of the most stressful times for the both of us, and knowing her has made it easier."

Ruth was recently discharged from the Hospital. Shelby is still hospitalized.

Ruth says Shelby is "someone I enjoy visiting with."

Shelby, in turn, says she is "determined to get out of here with good results" and enjoys Ruth's company.

"Ruth has a very good outlook on life and will be a fun person to get to know," Shelby says. "Life is a wonderful thing and if you don't get the best out of it, then that's your own fault."