March 2007Andy Thomas' grandmother inspired him to become a physical therapist. She was extremely independent and continued to live out in the country outside Mooresville, N.C., even after his grandfather died.
"When her knees got so bad that she couldn't drive to see friends or shop, she felt marooned and got depressed. Life wasn't enjoyable anymore," said Thomas, PT, lead therapist for the Rehabilitation and Fitness Center at Piedmont Fayette Hospital in Fayetteville. More
"Fencers ready. Salute. Mask. En garde." Does this sound like the language of a pediatric dietitian? Hardly. But then, Ellen O'Leary, clinical nutrition coordinator at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston, is also a world-class fencer.
After taking up the sport three years ago at the age of 62, she placed fifth in her age group at the World Veterans Fencing Championships in England last year. In her first national tournament this season, she earned a gold medal in saber and her first gold medal in women's veteran 60 foil. She has set her sights on qualifying for the national team again and competing in Sydney, Australia, this year in the world championships. More
Daisy Brazzeal, coordinator of surgery at St. Joseph's Health System, likes to encourage patients who are about to have hip replacements. " 'I had my operation three years ago, and look at me now,' I tell them. It makes them smile," Brazzeal said.
As well it should. At 75, Brazzeal is still working full time, traveling and doing the things that are important to her — like inspiring others. More