A Mighty OT Month: Coach Meghan’s Story
October is Occupational Therapy (OT) Month and OT is one of the main elements of our practice that supports families across the world and specifically here in Alberta to create and celebrate their awesome.
This month we honour Meghan Harris, Occupational Therapist and Qi Creative coach and her journey as a student, therapist, and most recently a patient of occupational therapy.
“I have been an Occupational Therapist with Qi Creative for the past five years; practicing for four and on medical leave this past year working on my own rehabilitation after a severe accident.”
“A year ago on August 11, 2018, I was hit by a pick-up truck while cycling, and sustained life threatening injuries. I broke many bones, acquired an incomplete spinal cord injury and underwent three surgeries to help get me medically stable. I spent two months in the hospital working with doctors, occupational and physical therapists to build my strength and independence skills before I could go home. I’ve continued to work with health professionals almost daily since being home to get me to a place where I can live a meaningful life in my new body, and eventually get back to working as an Occupational Therapist.”
“In the spring I was a guest on the Occupational Therapy focused podcast “Occupied”, hosted by Brock Cook, a friend and Australian Occupational Therapist. I shared my story with Brock and what it has been like to be the patient/client in the rehabilitation process working on occupational goals and to require the assistance of the medical system.”
“I have learned a lot through these unfortunate circumstances, but ultimately I know that when I am able to get back to work as an OT, my personal experience as a patient will have made me a better therapist.”
Thank you Meghan for sharing your courage, strength, and “Mighty” spirit. We are grateful that you are alive to share your story and inspire others’ journey, whether it be as a student, therapist and/or patient.
