Physical therapy has the power to enrich and transform lives--including the lives of the physical th...

1. From PT in Motion: The Courage of Patients as a Source of
Strength During Personal Tragedy
Physical therapy has the power to enrich and transform lives--including the lives of the physical
therapists (PTs) themselves. Nancy Johnson, PT, knows firsthand that it's a power that can see PTs
through the darkest times.
This month's issue of PT in Motion magazine includes the moving story of Johnson, who was
diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease in late 2013. Her "Defining Moment" column
describes in her own words how she is coming to grips with her diagnosis, and how she has drawn
strength from her work as a PT.
Though her abilities have declined to the point that she retired from her job as a clinic director last
year, Johnson embraces her life by taking inspiration from her former patients, many of whom faced
chronic and debilitating conditions with grace and courage.
"Nearly every PT and PTA has seen remarkable courage in patients--bravery that sometimes hardly
seems possible," says Johnson. "I know that my experience working with so many incredibly resilient
people is helping me face my disease with a resolve that I likely would lack otherwise."
Johnson's remarkable story is featured in the May issue of PT in Motion. Hard copy versions of the
magazine are mailed to all members who have not opted out; digital versions are available online to
members.
http://www.apta.org/PTinMotion/News/2015/5/1/PTiMMayAlzheimers/?blogid=10737418615