Rehabilitation staff, including physical, speech and occupational therapists, among others, help patients regain or improve their ability to live full lives after an injury, illness or disability. These remarkable professionals play an invaluable role in being every family’s essential partner in raising healthier children. They develop highly personalized treatment plans to enhance quality of life, help manage pain and chronic conditions, and so much more.
The third week of September (Sept. 16 – 22, 2024) is National Rehabilitation Awareness Week and the perfect time to recognize these specialized care team members for all they do to ensure kids continue to be their optimistic, resilient, courageous and curious selves. To celebrate, we interviewed Dustin Aune, physical therapist at the Maple Grove, Rogers and Minnetonka clinics. He has worked at Children’s Minnesota for five years and is sharing his favorite things about his profession, pediatric practice and more below.
What inspired you to pursue a career in rehabilitation services/physical therapy?
“I have always had a passion for exercise, general health and well-being. A career in physical therapy really resonated with me because it provides the opportunity to bring a whole-body approach to a patient’s care.”
Why did you decide to work in pediatrics?
“From early on, I knew that I wanted to work with children in some capacity. I have always felt like my personality jived the most with children. I love to be goofy and silly and felt like I could bring a positive energy to children when they’re going through some of the harder moments in their young lives. Being given the chance to have an impact on kids during their development is such an honor and a privilege.
“I also have always been fascinated by the resilience that children have. Most of the kids who I work with have gone through more hardship and struggle than most adults, yet they do so with a smile on their face and continue to find joy in the little things. I recently had a kiddo relay a story to me about starting school; he met a new kid in his class and on the first day, asked him if he wanted to be his new best friend. He said yes. A child’s mind and outlook are truly beautiful things.”
What’s your favorite thing about being a physical therapist?
“Seeing the joy on a child’s face when they master a new skill for the first time or regain a skill they have fought to get back is such a great feeling. Also, because working in pediatrics gives you an opportunity to build relationships with not only the children, but their whole family, it is so rewarding to see a family’s response to their child’s progress as well.”
What do you want patients, families and/or staff to know about the work you do?
“Collaboration is key! I collaborate with my peers so we can impact kiddos on all fronts and make sure we are providing the best care possible. I collaborate with families so mom/dad/caregivers feel confident guiding their child toward their goals. And of course, I collaborate with kiddos so they are active participants in their own care.”
How do you plan to celebrate National Rehabilitation Awareness Week?
“I celebrated by going to Disney and Harry Potter World earlier this month. It was fun to get back in touch with my youthful persona and refresh myself with witchcraft and wizardry. :)”
