Stunning, Amazing, Humbling

By Sandra Norby, PT, DPT

Recently, I finished my 9th consecutive Surf City Half Marathon, which was the 45th half marathon and 60th organized run over 10 miles for me. Training was tough in frosty Iowa, but I was confident of a strong finish without injury. A Huntington Beach firefighter ran the marathon wearing 70 pounds of fire gear, including his breathing apparatus—stunning, amazing, humbling.

We all are in the presence of heroes every day of our lives: our patients, our spouses (for being married to us), our business partners, and even ourselves. Every run, I dedicate a mile to someone. I have so many people who have impacted my life, it keeps me going when I can pray for and appreciate them. I thought of Chad, my 42-year-old quadriplegic patient who had a four-wheeler accident four years ago. I thought of his wife and his two kids. I thought of Jane Snyder and her losing battle with cancer and wondered if she had ever pounded the same pavement I was on. I thought of the many physical therapists who lobby for their patients’ right to access our services. I prayed for several friends and members of my family who recently lost a parent. I appreciated all of you for your contributions to our profession and your community.

Our Private Practice Section is truly a community. Thomas Carlton, PT, DPT, a new professional who was invited to the PPS Strategic Planning session, confirmed this by stating, “I came for the education and stayed for the community.” Our community is growing, and our members appreciate its offerings. Your Board has debated and devised a new strategic plan with the intent of fostering the development of an even better community, and we look forward to sharing that with you. Please continue to reach out to us and continue to invite others to join.