Larry Brown has lived most of his life in Licking County. After graduating from Newark High School, he began work in the office of the Licking County Clerk of Courts. He served in the office and as Clerk of Courts for many years and retired in 2008. During that time, Larry also volunteered his time by serving on a variety of boards of organizations that benefit the community.

Playing golf is one of Larry’s passions. While out enjoying a game in July 2024, he missed a step, fell, and injured his hip. An emergency squad quickly arrived and transported Larry to Licking Memorial Hospital (LMH) where he underwent surgery to repair the broken hip. After a few days of recovery, Larry was moved to the Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit (ARU) at LMH. There he began rehabilitation for his injury.

“I spent a total of 12 days in the Hospital, and everyone there was so good to me,” Larry remembered. “The staff in the ARU were able to get me back on my feet. They knew when to push me and make sure I completed the exercises as needed. They were all very professional and courteous. I was also excited to work with David W. Koontz, D.O., because we had met each other prior to my admission to LMH. We had plenty to talk about and much in common. I am so grateful for his expertise, professionalism, and kindness.”

The ARU at LMH is a specialized care center for patients who require medical care while receiving therapy to recover from an accident, injury, illness, or surgery. Patients receive individualized care based on physical need and functionality. Family members and care givers are included in this process. The ARU staff is directed by a physician and includes specially trained nurses, social workers, dietitians, and physical, occupational, and speech therapists who focus on living skills to prepare the patients to care for themselves.

Patients must be able to tolerate at least three hours of therapy, five days per week and may include physical, occupational, and speech therapy. The goal of the ARU is to restore function and maximize independence in a reasonable time with the intention that the patient will be able to return home after being discharged from the ARU.

“When I was ready to go home, the staff assisted in making appointments for continuing therapy and follow-up care,” Larry explained. “Thanks to their assistance, I was able to return to the golf course by September. At my age, a broken hip can be devastating and put an end to participating in activities such as golf. I feel blessed that I am able to remain active, play golf, and spend time with my wonderful family.”

Larry and his wife, Beverly, have been married for over 60 years. The couple share three children, Scott, Marcie, and Jeff, seven grandchildren, and one greatgrandson.