OREANDA-NEWS. In 2012, Southwest Airlines landed at the St. Luke's Community in Spokane, Washington, a 2,200 square foot real-life therapy area at St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute dedicated to helping people recover after an injury or illness. A portion of a fuselage sponsored by Southwest Airlines was retrofitted to be part of St. Luke's therapy program, the region's only level I trauma rehabilitation hospital. Now, the partnership has given one of Southwest's own Flight Attendants, Kate Ordorizzi, the Freedom to Fly and return to work following an injury.

At the St. Luke's Community, Kate used the Southwest-sponsored airplane therapy module to practice her job duties such as stowing luggage, performing Safety checks, and delivering drink service. Now, Kate has completed her treatment and is ready to return to work. To view a video documenting Kate's journey to recovery, visit www.swamedia.com.

Southwest Airlines partnership with St. Luke's signified the first time the carrier partnered with a hospital in this manner. Since the plane landed in 2012, the Community has helped more than 3,500 patients regain both strength and confidence.