How did you first become interested in the healthcare field?
When I was 12, I broke my ankle and I refused to wear the brace that was prescribed. The brace was something like a Forrest Gump wore in the movie, metal joints with leather straps. After recovering from the injury, I started volunteering at a camp for children with cerebral palsy. It was after those experiences I knew I wanted to be a physical therapist.
What is your current position in your work?
I am a senior level, PT level 4, team lead of Limb Deficiency Program Children’s Health Care of Atlanta.
What drew you to ACPOC?
In 1992, a prominent orthopedic surgeon came around the corner of my asking for the orthotic and prosthetic team to be a member clinic of ACPOC, Association of Children’s Prosthetic and Orthotics clinics. ACPOC had originally started back in the 1970s.
What does this organization provide its members?
ACPOC is a multidisciplinary association that supports networking, continuous learning, update on technological advances and evidence-based practices for healthcare providers who treat children with musculoskeletal disorders.
Why are you so passionate about ACPOC?
Because ACPOC has a common cause – all members and industry relations are passionate about mission and vision of ACPOC.
What are some of the accomplishments ACPOC has made in your time with them?
The organization went from a physician-based clinic model to multidisciplinary model to include healthcare providers, regardless of affiliation with a specialty clinic. ACPOC News has expanded and become more of a medical journal with high-level evidence articles by experienced clinicians and researchers. In ACPOC’s leadership development, the president and leaders can be of any discipline.
What is your favorite quote or motto by which you live?
The “golden rule”—do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I tell students and fellow clinicians there is good in everybody and it’s our job to find it and build on it. There is a twinkle in everyone’s eye, and you have to find it.
What advice would you like to share with anyone new in the healthcare field?
Teamwork is success. No matter how experienced you are or think you are, there’s always room for growth. It’s OK to step aside and let someone else shine. And just share—share ideas and share thoughts.
Do you have any final thoughts our readers should know?
ACPOC is a wonderful association of healthcare professionals that have a common cause – offering a comprehensive resource of treatment options provided by professionals who serve children, adolescents and young adults with various musculoskeletal differences. ACPOC is a very inviting and welcoming group.
