She was still a patient at Kerang District Health when she took her first tentative steps.

Now, with the help from "those wonderful girls" from the hospital's Transition Care Program team, Mrs Dean is now back residing at home in her Barham unit.

Mrs Dean is the first "graduate" of the local Transition Care Program.

She met this week with the majority of the team which helped her regain her independence and she was intent on singing their praises.

KDH occupational therapist and program co-ordinator, Kate Roberts was backed by Mrs Dean's general practitioner, Dr Divina Del Rosario, physiotherapist, Kaye White and personal carers and allied health assistants, Lisa Miller and Kerry Gillingham.

Mrs Dean initially thought that she would never regain her independence, but was constantly reassured by the transition care team that her progress was "slow and steady".

Her woes began on the Sunday before the Melbourne Cup in November when she was in severe pain and unable to get out of bed.

"I was in excruciating pain when the paramedics moved me and I was taken to hospital," she said.

Dr Del Rosario said that consultation with a neurologist resulted in diagnosis of degenerative changes to Mrs Dean's back.

Ever slowly, Mrs Dean was able to walk to the shower and soon, although still with some pain, advanced along the hospital corridor and eventually was able to reach the nurses' station.

"I didn't think I'd ever walk again, but those girls persevered and kept reminding me of my progress," she said.

Physiotherapy, occupational therapy and activity programs followed at the hospital's W.D. Thomas Day Care Centre, then outings and trips to the shopping centre.

Throughout this progress, Mrs Dean's independence gradually returned and her confidence grew.

Program co-ordinator, Kate Roberts said that all Kerang District Health services are provided in an integrated manner.

Personal carers have been visiting Mrs Dean daily since she returned home, supporting her progress in regaining independence, satisfied now that she can shower, dress and walk without assistance.

Mrs Dean is now back at home, receiving home care and meals on wheels, plus daily support from her daughter.

The bowling club secretary and arthritis support group member is hoping she can gradually return to her community involvement, all the while being grateful that she was involved in the program.

"I'm going to miss those girls," she said.

"They're wonderful, those girls, the best thing that's ever happened to Kerang!"