A journey of healing: A patient's story about healing and hope.
For lifelong Fredericksburg resident Patrick Klein, community has always been at the heart of his life. Born and raised here, he spent time in Oklahoma and San Antonio before returning home more than 20 years ago. Since then, he has been an active part of the Hill Country community, serving in youth sports, the Chamber of Commerce, and as a deacon for St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He also served on the board of directors for Hill Country Memorial Hospital for six years.
Mr. Klein’s health had always been strong aside from undergoing quadruple bypass surgery at the age of 60. Then one evening he slipped on the tile floor while stepping out of the shower which left him with a puncture wound and broken bone in his left foot.
After receiving emergency care, Klein was referred to Methodist Hospital Hill Country’s Wound Care Clinic. What first appeared to be a simple injury turned into a longer journey of healing. “It took two to three months for that wound to heal,” he recalled. “But during the process, we noticed that some of the swelling in my legs, caused by lymphedema, was also improving with the treatment and bandaging.”
Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system does not function as it should. Instead of draining excess fluid, proteins, and toxins from the body, fluid builds up and causes swelling, most often in the arms and legs. Swelling can be painful and may increase the risk of infection in the affected areas. For Klein, it meant significant swelling in his legs and lesions that made walking difficult. “My calves were at least double, if not three times their normal size,” he said. “The swelling made my legs heavy, painful, and prone to wounds and infections.”
That is when wound care physical therapist Jetta Eckhardt began treating him weekly, focusing not only on healing the original injury but also on the long-term management of his lymphedema. She has seen his progress firsthand. “His legs are completely different now compared to when he first came in,” Eckhardt said. “We wrap his legs weekly to prevent fluid buildup. It is not just treatment. It is maintenance and management for the rest of his life.”
Eckhardt explained how Klein’s progress has been remarkable. “His legs are completely different now compared to when he first came in,” she said. “We wrap his legs weekly to prevent fluid buildup. It’s not just treatment; it’s maintenance and management for the rest of his life.”
Klein credits her skill and persistence for his improvement. “She’s top notch,” he said. “She knows what she’s doing. When she tried silver skin as part of my treatment, it made a 100% difference. Her knowledge and care have kept me going.”
Today, Klein comes to the Wound Care Clinic every Wednesday morning. His legs are healthier, the lesions have healed, and the swelling is under control. But the care doesn’t stop at the clinic, it requires daily attention at home. “It’s a partnership,” Eckhardt noted. “Patients like him who stay consistent with treatment see the best results.”
Klein knows how intimidating it can feel to seek care for a condition like lymphedema. But he encourages others not to hesitate. “Do it, you won’t regret it,” he said. “I say that without hesitation. The care I’ve received at Methodist Hospital Hill Country’s wound care clinic has made all the difference.”
For Klein, Methodist Hospital Hill Country’s Wound Care Clinic has given him more than treatment, it has given him the ability to remain active in the community he has always loved.