I grew up in a small town where I played every sport I could. In college, that passion continued with intramural and rec-leagues—being active has always been central to my life. But in 2016, while training for a triathlon, I slipped on ice and fractured my hip. Six weeks later, I was in a car accident that left me with a herniated disc. As an athlete, injuries weren’t new—but this time, I didn’t know if I’d walk again.

At the time, I had been a therapist for nearly a decade. Suddenly, I was in my patients’ shoes. I followed every recommendation, stepping back from training to heal properly. That pause helped me tune into my body in a new way—and it deepened my perspective as a therapist.

Today, I approach my work with greater empathy and a broader view of health. My own healing journey has taught me to take more time, listen more deeply, and support each patient’s unique path to wellness.