As a kid growing up with mild cerebral palsy, I always had the best experiences with different therapies. I’ve had my fair share of trips to the doctors, AFOs (Ankle-foot orthoses), and surgeries. When I went to PT (physical therapy) or OT (occupational therapy) appointments, my therapists always made it fun for me. It was more of a special playtime session that my siblings never got. As I got older, I looked at my therapists as superheroes. I wanted to be just like them.
Surprisingly, I had never heard about recreational therapy until the end of high school. I was dreaming of becoming an occupational therapist, an English teacher, or a writer. I remember being in Health Science and learning about RT, and a lightbulb going off. It was perfect, because I’ve never lost my sense of play and nostalgia. But did I really stick to the epiphany at first? Nope. As an expert overthinker, I was confused about what to do. I enrolled in college, majoring in TR/RT, and minoring in English creative writing. No shock, I fell in love with recreational therapy, and have the benefit of combining the two studies. Pen to paper, creating leisure activities. Duh!
I’m completing my senior summer internship at Hinds’ Feet Farm in Huntersville, NC. I first heard about Hinds’ Feet from members visiting Catawba, then visiting with one of my classes. I simply cannot explain how much I adore this beautiful and welcoming environment. This population is extraordinary in every way. I love hearing their stories, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know the HFF members and staff. This internship has been immensely rewarding. Working for the brain injury population brings me so much happiness. I’m so lucky for the opportunities HFF has given me, including gaining more knowledge and skills in the rec therapy world. I look forward to coming back to volunteer!
Brenna
Huntersville Day Program Intern