Larry Hatfield

Larry Hatfield has lived a life of service and accomplishment. A retired law enforcement officer, he also served on the cabinet for three Kentucky governors and worked with the Department of Agriculture. More recently, Larry has been involved with the Lake Cumberland Development Program, where he assists students in earning their GED and finding a career path. He also teaches Sunday school at his church, and still holds several Kentucky high school basketball records!

A few years ago, Larry underwent open-heart surgery and made a full recovery. But in January 2025, he faced a new challenge. What began as an infection in his pinky toe quickly developed into necrotizing fasciitis with sepsis. He was admitted to the Medical Center at Bowling Green, where he underwent a below-the-knee amputation. After a second surgery just days later, Larry transferred to Southern Kentucky Rehabilitation Hospital to begin his recovery.

Larry and his family chose SKY Rehab for its prosthetic training program. Their hope was that his leg would heal enough to begin therapy, and Larry was determined to get started. Within days of arriving, he was up and moving with a walker.

Family was Larry’s greatest motivation. He is devoted to his wife, daughter, and three grandchildren, and wanted nothing more than to regain his independence so he could enjoy life with them. “You have to have the desire to keep going and the belief that you can do anything you set your mind to,” Larry said. His goals were simple but powerful: walk independently, ride his lawnmower, and get back on a boat to fish again.

During his stay at SKY Rehab, Larry made remarkable progress. By discharge, he was able to complete nearly all of his daily activities independently with the support of a walker. He even mastered the “Tower of Terror,” the tall staircase in the therapy gym that challenges many patients.

Nine months after his amputation, Larry continues to make strides. He is getting accustomed to his permanent prosthetic, driving again, and back to work. Best of all, he recently welcomed his first great-grandchild into the family.

Larry, thank you for inspiring us with your strength and determination. It has been our honor to walk alongside you in this journey, and we wish you continued success in all that lies ahead.