Jeanne Special Strong Case Study

Jeanne Andersen is a 52-year-old Marine Corps veteran with a heart of gold, a salty personality, and a dry sense of humor that keeps us all laughing.

She lives with Multiple Sclerosis and early-onset dementia, and uses a wheelchair due to a mix of health challenges. When Jeanne started working with us at Special Strong in September 2024, she couldn’t stand on her own—or even sit up straight.

But that didn’t stop her from setting some big goals.

Her goals were clear:

  • Build enough strength to stand and transfer from her wheelchair to the toilet, car, and bed.
  • Take a few steps using a walker.
  • Improve her strength to move herself more easily in her wheelchair.

Fast forward to now—Jeanne can stand using her walker and has taken up to 31 steps in the gym with it!

Her journey has been nothing short of inspiring, and we are amazed by her every single day.

Jeanne shows up with her signature Marine toughness, sharp wit, and a strong spirit that motivates everyone around her.

We are honored to be part of her story.

She is truly awe-inspiring, and a powerful reminder of why our work matters.