What are some unique facts about you?
I don’t know how to swim.
I only have 25% function in one of my kidneys.
I have never tasted beer or champagne and I’ve only had two small sips of wine in my entire life.
How long have you been an occupational therapy practitioner and what has been your favorite part about the profession?
I graduated from St. Ambrose University in December of 1992 – so I almost have 30 years of experience in the field of occupational therapy.
My favorite thing about occupational therapy has been that I have the ability to make a positive difference in patients’ lives. The changes could be as simple as being kind to them during difficult times or as complex as teaching someone to drive using adaptive equipment. But, in the end, it’s all super valuable and rewarding.
What is one piece of advice you would give occupational therapy assistant students?
My advice is to accept and believe that learning is a process and not an end result. So many times, students expect learning to always equate to good grades…however, learning takes time and the fruit of the hard work won’t show until later.
What is your favorite quote from the field of occupational therapy?
My favorite OT quote is: “Occupational Therapy is where science, creativity, and compassion collide”. Jessica Kensky – RN and Survivor of the Boston Marathon bombing. She received occupational therapy while recovering from bilateral leg amputation following the bombing.