I was recently admitted to Avantara Chicago Ridge for rehabilitation after a fall. When given the choice of three different facilities to recover after my hospital stay, I gladly chose Avantara because I was familiar with the building. As a former police detective, I was previously assigned to a case in which I had to work with the Stickney Township Department of Aging to ensure the well-being of a community member. We decided to place her here, and the staff was wonderful with her. Because of that, I knew I would be in good hands for my short-term rehab. The therapy team has been outstanding. They are teaching me exercises that improve my stability and balance, as well as helping me regain strength to perform routine daily tasks. I hope to return home soon. It might sound scripted, but the staff at Avantara Chicago Ridge is fantastic, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart.

- Barb G.

Just over a week after undergoing surgery, Karen was admitted to Avantara Chicago Ridge to recover and for physical and occupational therapy. After three weeks at Avantara, Karen is ready to go home to her beautiful cat in Burbank. She praised every department at Avantara. ‘I can only say great things about everyone here. Everyone was absolutely wonderful. All I worked with were encouraging and just so great.’ the 74-year-old said. The therapists and nurses received huge compliments from Karen. She said, ‘Everyone went above and beyond. My stay was very pleasant, and I received excellent care from all departments, from housekeeping, nursing, OT to PT.’ Karen also thanked members of the social services department. ‘Patti was so helpful. There were many times people would go out of their line of work to find something out or do something for me.’, she said.

- Karen G.

My father was a resident at Avantara Chicago Ridge, and  I want to recognize the outstanding staff, especially Roy, Eucharia (RNs), Char (RN supervisor), and Michelle (CNA). They were some of the most amazing people we’ve been lucky enough to cross paths with during his stay. They were compassionate and knowledgeable and helped him stay comfortable and at ease. Thank you for giving him the best rehabilitation, wound care and helping him recover. He is home now, thanks to the excellent team at Avantara.

- Danielle T.

I came to Avantara Chicago Ridge after surgery on my leg. I needed physical therapy to regain my strength. I have been here for a couple of months, and I am making good progress. I could not walk when I first arrived, but now I can walk twenty-four steps with my walker. I am even using the bicycle! My therapist has helped me so much. I call her “the general.” She makes sure I put in the work. She encourages me. I also like to think that I bring a smile to her face. I mean, it’s not every day that you meet a woman named Charles! It makes a great conversation starter. I still have more work to do to reach my goals, but I know I am in good hands at Avantara Chicago Ridge.

- Charles J.

I went to Avantara Chicago Ridge for post-hospital care because I needed more time to recover before returning home. A social worker recommended them, and I am glad I went. They exceeded my expectations and helped me reach my recovery goals. The staff was wonderful, courteous, and dependable, especially Roy (nurse). He was compassionate and very accommodating. I can tell that he genuinely cared about the residents. I highly recommend them for personalized care and attention.

- Suzanne M.

I was apprehensive about going to a rehabilitation center for physical therapy, but I immediately changed my mind as soon as I got to Avantara Chicago Ridge. The staff was very helpful from the moment I arrived. They treated me with utmost care. I couldn’t walk when I got there, and thanks to their superior care, I am back on my feet. I also appreciate the kitchen team for serving warm meals and fresh fruit. I am incredibly grateful to their staff. I’m glad that I chose Avantara!

- Mildred C.

I went to Avantara Chicago Ridge for rehabilitation after surgery. I really loved my physical and occupational therapists. The entire staff was friendly and caring, especially Barb (PT) and Lindsay (OT). I became more mobile thanks to their help. My family was very impressed with how clean the facility was, and I really liked my room. Thank you, Avantara!

- Norma B.

I came to Avantara Chicago Ridge after an amputation. The therapy staff has been excellent . They have gotten me to the point where I feel confident transferring from place to place and getting in and out of my wheelchair. Mobility is key for me, and I am slowly getting it back. I can roll down the hallway and grab a book to read from the library or sit in the dining room and talk to people. Over the past few years, I have traveled the world with my family. My goal is to get back to traveling as soon as possible. Everything I am learning at Avantara Chicago Ridge is getting me closer to my goal each day.

- Carolyn G.

I had a very positive experience at Avantara Chicago Ridge. The staff worked well with our caregiver. They communicated well and did an outstanding job with her physical therapy. The nurse did an exceptional job explaining my mom’s medications and ensuring we had enough supplies to take home during discharge. She also prepared a detailed chart to give to my mom’s primary care doctor to continue her care when she got home.

- Michael A.

I recently had to undergo emergency surgery, and I decided to go back to Avantara Chicago Ridge for my recovery. I had been there eight years ago for a skin graft and trusted them because of their excellent service and my doctor’s connection with their team. From the moment I arrived, the staff treated me with courtesy and kindness, helping me recover both mentally and physically. Their dedication gave me hope. The entire team stands out for their support, always willing to listen, spend time, and work through any issues with me. Andrea from social services has been particularly helpful in resolving problems, but every member reaches out to provide comprehensive assistance. They work closely together to ensure everyone gets the right care. At Avantara Chicago Ridge, you can count on them to create a customized team that will help you regain your strength and return to your loved ones. They listen to your needs and work tirelessly to find solutions. I wholeheartedly recommend them to friends and family seeking high-quality care

-Gloria B.

When my mother was hospitalized with a severe foot infection, we knew the road ahead would be challenging.She had already spent years living with the effects of a stroke that left her with significant limitations on one side of her body. When doctors determined she would need surgery, intravenous antibiotics, and a wound VAC to help her heal, we began searching for the right place to continue her recovery.After reviewing several options, I chose Avantara Chicago Ridge.I visited the facility, spoke with staff, looked at reviews, and trusted my instincts. From the moment I walked through the doors, the atmosphere felt different. The staff seemed welcoming, engaged, and genuinely interested in helping residents succeed.That first impression turned out to be exactly right.Our primary goals were to make sure my mother’s wound healed properly, that she received the specialized care she needed, and that she remained comfortable and happy throughout her stay.The team delivered on all three.The nursing staff carefully managed her wound care and intravenous treatments, while the therapy team introduced services that I hadn’t even anticipated. Speech therapy became an especially meaningful part of her recovery, helping her work on communication skills and engage more confidently with those around her.I also noticed improvements in her physical abilities. The therapists worked with her on flexibility and movement, particularly on the side affected by her stroke. Even in a relatively short period of time, I could see progress.What impressed me most, however, was the attitude of the staff.I’ve visited facilities where care can feel routine or transactional. At Avantara Chicago Ridge, it felt personal. The nurses, therapists, and caregivers genuinely seemed invested in the residents they were caring for. They weren’t simply completing tasks—they were building relationships.One staff member who stood out was Cesario, who provided wound care for my mother. Wound VAC treatments can be uncomfortable, but he consistently offered reassurance, patience, and compassion. When she was struggling, he took the time to comfort her and help her feel at ease.Those moments mattered.My mother was nonverbal, so understanding what made her happiest wasn’t always easy. But I could tell she enjoyed therapy, especially the opportunity to communicate more and participate in activities that helped her stay engaged. She also appreciated the meals—something that always seemed to brighten her day.Most importantly, she was happy.Given the circumstances, that meant everything to me.If someone asked whether I would recommend Avantara Chicago Ridge, my answer would absolutely be yes. Serious health situations are never easy for families, but the team made the experience less stressful and more positive than I expected.They provided excellent clinical care, but beyond that, they treated my mother with kindness, dignity, and compassion. For our family, that made all the difference.

Gregory K.

When I first arrived at Avantara Chicago Ridge, I wasn’t walking.

But the truth is, I was carrying much more than physical challenges.

In the years leading up to my stay, I had experienced tremendous loss. My mother passed away in 2020, and about a year later, my fiancé passed away as well. Little by little, I withdrew from people, isolated myself, and stopped taking care of myself the way I should have.

I didn’t give up on life—I just gave up on myself.

Eventually, health complications, including cellulitis in my leg, brought me to the hospital. When it was time to leave, family members who had experience with Avantara Chicago Ridge encouraged me to consider the facility. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I could have made.

When I arrived, I couldn’t do much for myself.

Walking wasn’t an option. My confidence was gone. My physical health had declined, and mentally, I was in a very different place than I am today.

The team saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself.

The therapists challenged me every day. They refused to let me settle for less than what I was capable of achieving. Mina, Nicolette, Renee, and the occupational therapy team constantly encouraged me to keep going, even when I doubted myself.

I still remember hearing, “Come on, Ms. Felicia, you can do this.”

And they were right.

Today, I am walking with a walker. I can do things independently that I couldn’t do when I first arrived. I’ve continued making progress toward my health goals, including significant weight loss, and I am in a much healthier place both physically and emotionally.

One comment from Nicolette has stayed with me.

She told me that seeing someone arrive unable to walk and then leave walking is exactly why she loves what she does.

That meant the world to me because it reminded me that my success mattered to them.

What surprised me most was how invested everyone became in my journey. From Tammy in dietary and Mel in the kitchen to Chris in social services, the CNAs, nurses, therapists, and support staff, everyone seemed determined to help me succeed.

They didn’t just care for me.

They cared about me.

By the time I left, they felt like family.

Outside of therapy, one of my favorite parts of each day was participating in activities. The activity team created opportunities for residents to connect, laugh, and enjoy life together. Watching residents light up when music played or seeing friendships develop throughout the building reminded me how important community really is.

In fact, I became Vice President of the Residents’ Council during my stay.

That says a lot about how much I grew while I was there.

The person who arrived at Avantara Chicago Ridge was not the same person who left.

I left stronger, healthier, more confident, and in a much better headspace than when I arrived.

If someone asked me whether I would recommend Avantara Chicago Ridge, my answer would be an easy yes. The facility is clean, welcoming, and filled with people who genuinely want the best for their residents.

Most importantly, they helped me find my way back to myself.

For that, I will always be grateful.

Felicia W.

My rehabilitation stay at Avantara Chicago Ridge came after a very difficult medical journey following cervical spine surgeries that left me unable to walk or care for myself. When I arrived, I was determined to work hard and walk out of there instead of leaving in a wheelchair.

With the help of the therapy and nursing teams, I was able to reach that goal. They helped me relearn everyday things like walking, eating with a fork, washing up, and dressing myself. The therapy was exactly what I needed, and the staff were incredibly patient and encouraging throughout my recovery.

What meant the most to me was how the entire staff treated me like family. On days when my loved ones couldn’t visit, they were there to support me, listen to me, and cheer me on. I’m so grateful for the care I received and would absolutely recommend Avantara Chicago Ridge to anyone who needs rehabilitation and compassionate support.

Yvonne S.

My recent health journey started with what I thought was a simple illness. After becoming very sick and going to the emergency room, doctors discovered that my gallbladder needed to be removed immediately. They told me that waiting even another day or two could have been life-threatening.

After surgery, the hospital asked where I wanted to go for rehabilitation.

For me, the answer was easy.

I had stayed at Avantara Chicago Ridge before following knee replacement surgery, and I remembered how kind everyone had been. When it came time to choose a rehabilitation center again, I didn’t hesitate—I wanted to go back.

My goal was to regain my strength and mobility. I was using a walker and wanted to work toward returning to a cane. The therapy team helped me practice walking, navigate stairs safely, and learn exercises I could continue at home. Every session brought me one step closer to the independence I was working toward.

What impressed me most wasn’t just the therapy—it was the people.

From the moment I arrived, everyone went out of their way to make me comfortable. When I mentioned that my bed felt too small, the team immediately made arrangements for a larger one the very next morning. When I arrived after lunch had already been served, they made sure I still had a meal waiting for me.

The kindness and attention to detail never stopped.

Kayla, Anna, Roy, Latoya, Suzanne, Andre, Gabrielle, and so many others made a lasting impression on me. Suzanne, the nurse practitioner, took the time to sit down and explain my medications instead of rushing through the conversation. Kayla patiently answered my questions and helped me understand exactly what each medication was for. Every person I encountered treated me with respect, compassion, and genuine care.

What I looked forward to most each day was therapy. I was determined to get stronger and work my way back to using a cane, and the team encouraged me every step of the way.

If I had to rate my experience, I would give it more than a perfect score. On a scale of one to ten, I would give Avantara Chicago Ridge a twenty.

The staff, the therapy, the communication, the food, and the level of care were all exceptional. Most importantly, every person I met had a positive attitude and truly wanted to help.

That’s why I would absolutely recommend Avantara Chicago Ridge to anyone looking for rehabilitation. When you find a place you trust, a place where people genuinely care about your recovery, that’s where you want to be.

Mary A.

My Uncle Ed stayed at Avantara Chicago Ridge for about two weeks following a car accident and a hospital stay at MacNeal Hospital in Berwyn. During that time, my wife and I visited him six to eight times, and every visit reinforced that he was in the right place.

Uncle Ed repeatedly praised the staff for being friendly, professional, and attentive. He’s always been very independent and loves to walk and talk, and he often said he felt fine and ready to go home. However, the staff took the time to gently explain that he needed to build more strength before leaving. We agreed with their assessment and appreciated that they kept his long-term health and success as the priority.

With therapy and encouragement, Uncle Ed understood what needed to be done and made the progress he needed. By the time he was discharged, it was clear how much the staff cared—he left to hugs, smiles, and genuine well wishes. The reception area and nursing station were always professional, cordial, and knowledgeable, and we felt confident knowing he was in good hands. We are very grateful for the care Uncle Ed received at Avantara Chicago Ridge.

Jim A.

I came to Avantara Chicago Ridge after being hospitalized for a pinched sciatic nerve and pneumonia. Because it was a holiday weekend, I wasn’t able to start therapy in the hospital, so I came here to regain my strength and get back to walking with my walker again.

From the beginning, my goal was to become independent again—especially being able to get to the bathroom on my own. I’m proud to say I reached that goal quickly, and within just a few days I was dressing myself, taking care of my daily needs, and walking more confidently.

The therapy team was supportive and encouraging, and the staff made me feel truly welcomed and cared for. People like Walter, Anna, and Tracy went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable, supported, and never felt alone. Even when staff came in for someone else, they always took a moment to check on me, and that meant so much.

I would absolutely recommend Avantara Chicago Ridge for the kindness, the care, and the support that helped me feel like myself again.

Diane