‘In Case You Missed It’ Highlights – 10/2

‘In Case You Missed It’ Highlights – 10/2

October 2, 2022

October is here! As we continue to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, October also recognizes physical therapists as well as World Cerebral Palsy Day on the 6th. Momentum kept busy last month with Refresh events and Long Beach Gives. Be sure to read on how we’re encouraging people to get creative this Halloween!

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Long Beach Gives Raises Over $7,000

Momentum PTN has such a supportive community. During the annual Long Beach Gives, 76 donors gifted a total of $7,066 to help us purchase items on our wish list that will be used for therapies in the Long Beach clinic for children. We can buy climbing ladders, different style swings, mesh tunnels and SPIO suits thanks to your generosity. These tools will help the children we support flourish. Thank you to all who stepped up.

Refresh Gains Momentum at Several Events

The Refresh team is hard at work bringing accessibility to people. This month included the inclusion walk at Griffith Park and the Goleta Lemon Festival. We also had the opportunity to have civic leaders tour the vehicle during the California Disability Services Association Annual Meeting in San Diego. The vehicle has received overwhelming praise. Deborah T. shared her thoughts on the vehicle after using it at the lemon festival. She said that for outings, she is confined to a wheelchair. Using this type of vehicle allowed her to feel comfortable and secure in the facilities. She said our staff was helpful and the restroom was beautifully maintained.

“I had no idea, that these types of facilities were even available. It was nice to feel dignified and confident using the restroom. I think these restrooms are the key to freedom, for many disabled people such as myself. I would feel more confident going to festivals, etc. if I know that these facilities are going to be available. Thank you for being so innovative on the behalf of disabled people, this will change many lives.”

Halloween Accessibility Ideas

It’s not too early to start designing your costumes! Our Universal Design team is encouraging everyone to get creative for their Halloween costume. Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing the design work from our Momentum Creative artists. We are highlighting equality and accessibility this spooky season. Share your design and ideas with us on our social channels @Momentum4All!

Physical Therapist Spotlight: Megan V. (Director of PT at Momentum PTN)

What do you want people to know about the therapies you provide?

What I would like people to know is that there are a wide variety or therapies we use to treat a wide variety of patients. We can help patients gain skills they never had, as well as gain skills back they may have lost.

What do you think about the Momentum PTN physical therapy department?

I love the PT department. We have such a great and talented group of therapists who truly care about seeing all of the patients gain skills and succeed with whatever their life goals are. The therapists are so fun and creative and really find joy in what they do on a daily basis.

What should parents ask physical therapists when figuring out a plan for their child?

Parents should be vocal about concepts or ideas they don’t understand. There are a lot of areas and terminology that we can cover and it can get confusing. Parents should make sure they are informed about all aspects of their child’s treatment: what the therapist is doing, why they are doing it, and what they can do at home to continue their success.

What are your favorite hobbies and activities outside of Momentum PTN?

I love being active. I enjoy running, especially along the beach. It’s a great way to either prepare for the day or relax after a long day. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends as often as I can.

What are your favorite tools to implement in your physical therapy sessions?

I don’t think I can say that I have a “favorite” tool to use, there are so many good ones. I have always loved using an exercise ball for core work. There are so many good exercises you can do and it can be used across multiple ages and impairments. I also love to incorporate household items that allow families to practice skills in their own home (pillows, towels, etc).