Passaic Today

On April 7, Layton McLaughlin, a young man with severe autism, celebrated his 19th birthday at home, marking a significant recovery after a challenging time. Layton's mother, Petro McLaughlin, shared her appreciation for the care her son received from the staff at Kindred Hospital Melbourne following a medical emergency.

Petro McLaughlin highlighted the hospital's commitment, stating, “They were amazing with my kid. He was the youngest patient in the hospital. Everyone there said, ‘We are going to take care of him like a son.’ That made my heart so happy … to know that other people would take care of him the way that I would.”

Laura Burke, Market CEO for Kindred Hospitals of East Florida, emphasized her connection to autism, which informed adjustments to Layton’s care. Burke remarked, “He was becoming more alert and ready to start working with therapy. We quickly turned him around, and there was no stopping him once he was off the sedatives. He was ready to go. He was out of here.”

Layton was discharged on March 20, ahead of schedule. During his stay, the hospital also provided support to Petro McLaughlin to allow her to rest. Burke's empathy and understanding were instrumental, as Petro said, “Laura was my son’s voice in the hospital when I couldn’t be there.”

Layton formed bonds with his caregivers, particularly Nursing Supervisor Anita Smith, who visited him at his home on his birthday. Bringing balloons, Smith joined the celebration as Layton, who usually doesn’t give hugs, embraced one of his caregivers upon a return visit to the hospital.

Petro McLaughlin praised the team's dedication, noting, “They could see the joy in his eyes and see how far he’s come. They were compassionate and patient, and they treated my kid like anybody else.”