When William Singler was hospitalized with a broken left leg, he never imagined not going home right away. But the months added up to years.

Now with Village North Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, he might be back in his home by Thanksgiving. It's been two years of missed meals and shared time with his wife and six children.

Singler's problems began when he was diagnosed with severe, uncontrolled diabetes. Clots were removed from both heels. When admitted to Village North in March 2006, he developed severe pressure sores. At one point, he was on hospice care.

"When you lay in bed for over a year, it takes the starch out of your legs," says Singler. "I didn't know I was in such bad shape until I started therapy here."

The Village North nursing staff worked for more than a year using skin care protocols to promote healing. He received physical and occupational therapy twice a day and quickly became a favorite with the staff for his humble determination.

"When we first started working with him, he couldn't even sit on the bed due to his low endurance," says Lynette Olwig, PT. "When he made a request to walk again, I wasn't sure we would be able to get to that point. I contribute this success to his faith, hard work and incredible spirit. He was very willing to try anything you asked. You don't meet many like that."

"The state survey team was here shortly after Mr. Singler was admitted, and saw the worst of his condition. This year, they were astounded with his progress," says Jean Decamp, director of nursing. "The pressure sores were not only healed, but he was up and out of bed and was working toward the goal of walking again.