Trine graduate recognized for delivering excellent care

FORT WAYNE — A Trine University graduate recently was recognized by Parkview Health for the excellent patient care he provided.

After a visit to the hospital late last year, Steve Alfano learned he had spinal stenosis and required surgery. Two days after the procedure, Steve was transferred to the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit at Parkview Hospital Randallia, where he began physical therapy. It was there that he met Trine University School of Health Sciences graduate Cole DeVoss.

Steve’s wife, Debbie, recently shared with Parkview how Cole inspired Steve to continue working toward his goals and served as a constant source of support for both him and the rest of the therapy team. Debbie explained that, if not for Cole’s endless reassurance and encouragement for Steve to push himself to improve, her husband never would have made it this far.

“Steve and I just wanted to share how much Cole means to us for never giving up on Steve and always encouraging him to do better,” Debbie said.

Cole’s manager, Ann Marie Noll, wasn’t surprised when she heard about Debbie and Steve’s compliments for Cole and the entire care team.

“Cole is amazing, and I’m so proud of the difference he made for this patient,” she said. “He’s extremely dedicated to his patients, and they love him.” She added that Cole, who started with the department as a physical therapy technician as he was finishing school at Trine, recently passed his boards to complete his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

“Our Inpatient Rehabilitation patients can be here for several weeks, and our therapists are dedicated to working hard to get these patients home,” she said. “Cole has a passion for excellent care, and it is apparent to our patients.”

Although Steve still has a long journey to recovery, he has transitioned to outpatient therapy and is thankful for the excellent care he continues to receive.

“Everyone who has helped Steve has been wonderful,” Debbie said. “We couldn't have had better care, and Steve couldn't have done it without all of their help. They have truly touched our lives.”

In an email sent to staff, Parkview Health President and CEO Mike Packnett thanked Cole for his kindness and unfailing commitment to help Steve through his therapy. Parkview Health said Cole represented Trine graduates across the region well by creating a positive experience for this couple.

“It is through your dedication to providing the highest level of care and support that people like Steve are inspired to remain committed to moving forward on their health journey,” Packnett said.