Healing is more than a physical process—it’s an ongoing journey that blends state-of-the-art equipment, medical expertise and highly trained staff with care, compassion and connection. While Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is known for its cutting-edge technology and excellent medical specialty services, it’s the quiet, everyday acts of kindness that truly leave a lasting impact. The focus of PMC Kindness in Care is not just about medical procedures; it’s about the caring hearts and hands that guide patients toward recovery.
A shining example is Craig Spartman’s journey from testing, heart surgery, ICU, and all the way through Inpatient Rehabilitation (IPR). Craig, a loving husband, father, and devoted grandfather faced a life-altering challenge when he was diagnosed with coronary artery disease. He underwent critical coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery under the expertise of PMC Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dr. John Deel. Although his surgery saved his life, Craig’s road to recovery was just beginning.
After his surgery, Craig was transferred to the ICU, where uncertainty and doubt loomed over his recovery. He often spoke of the compassionate care he received, referring to the medical team as “angels saving my life.” As Craig continued his healing journey, he was moved to the 10th floor for rehabilitation, where his recovery to quality of life began. Craig credits his progress to the dedication and kindness of the staff. “Everyone has been so great during this journey,” Craig said. “From testing to surgery, the ICU to everyone in rehabilitation has taken such good care of me.”
Craig found more than just a medical center; he found a team of compassionate professionals who took the time to understand him, not just as a patient, but as a person. His recovery wasn’t just about regaining health and physical strength; it was about reclaiming his role as a grandfather—his identity and purpose. “I told myself I have to get better; they depend on their Pap,” Craig said, with tears in his eyes. His determination to be there for his grandbabies kept him going, motivating him every step of the way.
The care at PMC extends beyond the patient to their loved ones, embodying the hospital’s holistic approach to healing. Craig’s wife found comfort in knowing that not only was her husband being cared for, but she, too, was supported through the process. “As they reassured him, I felt reassured, too,” she shared. This shared sense of care is at the heart of PMC’s mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate healing in a Christian environment.
Coming to IPR, PMC Physiatrist Dr. Sankar Chirumamilla and the team of physical and occupational therapists, nurses, and other specialists created a personalized therapy plan tailored to Craig’s needs. “When Craig first arrived, he could barely walk 10 steps,” Dr. Chirumamilla recalls. “But by the end of his stay, he was walking 150 feet multiple times a day.”
After several long weeks, it was time for Craig to be discharged from IPR. The staff celebrated his incredible progress in a truly special way. They lined the hallways wearing party hats and holding glow sticks, dancing and singing “Celebrate Good Times, Go Home.” Craig was presented with a medal and a certificate—symbols of his hard work and perseverance. For the team, this wasn’t just a discharge; it was a celebration of Craig’s resilience and strength. “Many patients come to us feeling defeated and hopeless,” said PMC Occupational Therapist Kasi Gannon. “Celebrating their growth and optimism as they leave is incredibly special. It reminds them—and us—of just how far they’ve come.”
Craig’s Kindness in Care story is a reminder of the power of kindness and how it can make all the difference in someone’s healing process. At PMC, we are committed to making every patient feel valued, supported, and cared for, because we know that true healing involves the entire journey – from the treatment to the heartfelt moments that leave a lasting impact.
Kindness in Care stories are about the people, the staff, the connections, the commitment, and the care provided at every step. Every interaction, every smile, and every act of kindness plays a vital role in the recovery and well-being of our patients – where compassion and empathy are at the heart of everything we do.
