News

By Donna Bzdil, OTR/L, Rehabilitation Services Manager

April is Occupational Therapy (OT) Month.

I like to take time out in April to reflect on my own years as an occupational therapist and my career. I love my profession and have had a wonderful career.

I have seen many OT patients successfully return to work or grow up to be healthy adults with meaningful lives. This fills me with joy and reminds me that I chose the right profession.

Although occupational therapy has been around since the beginning of time, it officially became a profession in 1915. This concept has grown significantly since that time.

Occupational therapists can be seen in a variety of settings, working with individuals throughout their lifespan. This may look like helping individuals find meaningful ways to engage in their daily routines, or improving their quality of life after an illness or injury.

Since my start at CMH, I have had the opportunity to work with some incredible OTs. I find it exciting to be at a time in my career where I am able to help the younger OTs develop the skills they need to also have a wonderful career.

I will never forget those who were my mentors. They gave me the love and passion for my profession, and I hope I can do that for my team.

The CMH OT Department is growing yearly with new programs to address our community needs. CMH OTs are motivated, knowledgeable and passionate about providing treatment that helps patients improve their quality of life.

This month, as you cook a meal, use your hands, see your child get dressed, go to work or hold a newborn, think of occupational therapy. It is the profession that helps those who lost the ability to do these tasks and can potentially return to doing them again.

I want to wish all the CMH OTs, Holly, Vanessa, Paige, and Tammy, a Happy OT Month. Thank you for what you do for our community and CMH.