Gratitude is a powerful word.  It can be conveyed as an emotion, expression, or statement.  Gratitude is something given from one person to another as acknowledgement of appreciation for the work one does for another.  

We in the physical therapy field have one of the highest-ranking job satisfaction professions… due to the gratitude given to us regularly.  We help people in times of need. Whether it be to alleviate pain, improve function or impact our patients’ way of life.  Our success rate is reflected in what our patients are able to achieve.  

Take, for example, my former patient, Greg.  He had shoulder surgery which prevented him from performing work duties, home chores, but for him most importantly… hunting.  Greg had a difficult challenge in returning to full function as he lacked sufficient range of motion in multiple planes, poor strength and pain.  What does all this mean?  Greg couldn’t pull a bow for elk hunting.  He has a passion for hunting. It provides him his brotherhood with his friends and family.  Greg’s brotherhood and passion were threatened as a result of this pain. 

Months after completing his rehabilitation out of the blue… I receive a text.  He writes, “Good morning Rob.  I just wanted to say Thank You!  I filled my first elk tag on the 7th and it was such a special day to be doing what I love doing!”  Along with the message was a beautiful picture of an elk he was able to down with his bow.  

These little moments are the reason we do what we do.  We are driven by the chance to help the people of our community and assist in their recovery.  Any form of gratitude just fuels our motivation to continue to help our patients. 

Thanks again to all our former patients who have reached out to show your appreciation over the years.  

My gratitude is yours. 

Keep Moving!

Rob

• The author, Rob Sumner, is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and owner of Sumner Specialized Physical Therapy. He’s happy to answer any questions about this article, wellness, fitness or physical therapy overall by phone at (509) 684-5621 or by email at Rob@SumnerPT.com