Skip to main content

A patient and his rehab team, wedded to a goal.

Defining Moment

"I want to get down on my knees this week and propose to my girlfriend," Trent announced.

I was caught off-guard that Monday morning, and I wasn't sure the goal was achievable within the timeframe. Still, I didn't think twice about responding, "Sure! We'll figure it out."

It was exactly what I love most about being a physical therapist (PT) in the inpatient acute care setting. We often help patients achieve things that seemed unlikely or impossible to them in the wake of catastrophic injury. I took Trent's statement as a challenge. I'd do everything I could to help make this happen.

Log in or create a free account to keep reading.


Join APTA to get unlimited access to content.


You Might Also Like...

Column

President's Note | What It Means to Be Your Professional Home

In this issue of APTA Magazine, we focus on the second pillar of APTA's Strategic Framework for 2030: Empowering Our Members. The goal of this pillar?

Article

It's OK to Say, 'I Don't Know': Career Wisdom for New PTs and PTAs

Seasoned clinicians reflect on their early years to share the lessons they wish they'd learned sooner.

Article

Physical Therapy in the News: April 2026

"Physical Therapy in the News" is a monthly series that highlights recent media coverage of the profession and APTA members.