After Eight Months of Rehabilitation, Schoellkopf Resident Celebrates Return Home
By Katie Morse • September 3, 2026

Erica Smith credits determination, therapy and compassionate care with helping her regain her independence
NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — After eight months of rehabilitation at Schoellkopf Health Center, 53-year-old Niagara Falls resident Erica Smith reached the milestone she had been working toward since she arrived: going home.
Smith’s journey required months of physical and occupational therapy, determination and support from the Schoellkopf team. On September 1, staff gathered to celebrate her successful completion of rehabilitation and the next chapter in her recovery.
“I was determined. I’m gonna do it. Because I’m going home,” Smith said.
“Erica’s journey is a wonderful example of what can happen when determination is matched with compassionate, dedicated care,” said Marisa E. Prokop, LNHA, MHA, BSW, Administrator of Schoellkopf Health Center. “Our goal is to help each person regain as much strength and independence as possible, and there is nothing more rewarding for our team than seeing someone like Erica accomplish what she worked so hard for — returning home.”
At one point, Smith wasn’t sure that day would come. She credits the encouragement and care she received at Schoellkopf, including from aide Bria Seger, with helping her continue working toward her goal.
“I had a wonderful aide who took care of me,” Smith said. “She helped me walk. She got me up. We walked until I was tired — and we kept doing it.”
Over the months, Smith put in hours of physical and occupational therapy as she worked to rebuild her strength, mobility and independence.
“I’m so proud of you. This is the best thing ever,” Seger said to Smith as she got ready to leave Schoellkopf.
For Smith, the experience was about more than rehabilitation. It was about getting home to her children and grandchildren, and forming relationships along the way with people like Seger.
“She cared about me,” Smith said. “If you get sick, have to go to rehab, Schoellkopf is the place to be. Because they really help you out.”


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