To celebrate National Physiotherapy Month this year, the Kitchener-Waterloo District committee partnered with the MS Society’s annual MS walk on Sunday May 5, 2019 in Kitchener. Two physiotherapists from the Kitchener-Waterloo District committee set up a booth on event day to raise awareness about the role of physiotherapy in MS and the many roles of physiotherapy in general.
“As a committee we felt it was important to be present and actively engaged with the community to demonstrate our engagement, understanding, and support while adding context to our advocacy work at the same time.”
There were approximately 450 people of all ages in attendance with the sun shining, music playing, and everyone ready for a great morning. We were proud to be the only outside exhibitor with a booth set up at the event, and had some amazing opportunities to discuss the many roles of physiotherapy in managing neurological and musculoskeletal conditions!
In addition to our physiotherapy exhibition booth, we were asked to run the photo booth to capture team pictures before and after the walk! Not only was this fun and allowed us to channel our inner photographer, but the idea of being present and engaged while geared up in our OPA t-shirts was another great opportunity for people to question who we were, why we were there, and how we fit in to the overall picture. Our photography skills must have been fantastic because they have asked us to return again next year!
Partnering with others provides an opportunity for our profession to demonstrate our understanding and support for others while also highlighting the incredible benefits and value of physiotherapy at the same time. Happy National Physiotherapy month to all!
By Sarah Luxon, Kitchener-Waterloo District President
Submit your National Physiotherapy Month event pictures to Sara Pulins for publication in OPA communications.
