OT Spotlight: Brittany Willis

In honor of National Occupational Therapy Month, we’ll be highlighting a new OT every week throughout April. Today’s spotlight is on Brittany Willis, an OT on our Spinal Cord Injury Unit.

Brittany Willis, MS, OTR/L

Tell us a little about your background.

I attended Ithaca College where I received my undergraduate and graduate degrees through their 5 year masters occupational therapy program.  I have been an occupational therapist and at Magee for 3 ½ years. I accepted a position at Magee directly after school and started my career as an occupational therapist here at Magee!

Why did you decide to become an OT?

I have always had a passion for helping others and desired to either pursue a career in medicine or education. During high school, I was involved in a volunteer program called Friendship Circle which paired high school students with children with disabilities. Through my volunteer experience, I was exposed to occupational therapy and immediately fell in love with the profession. As an occupational therapist, I am able to fulfill all my dreams by helping others through hands on teaching in the healthcare setting.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is when a patient expresses appreciation and gratitude for the dedication and hard work we do here at Magee. A “thank you” from a patient goes a long way.

Tell us about an experience that solidified for you that you made the right career choice.

I was once working with a patient for whom going home alone seemed impossible. The patient was going to rely on a skilled nursing facility for discharge. Along with the patient and the team’s determination, we were able to set up services in order for the patient return home. Knowing that I have the ability to make a positive difference in a person’s future solidifies that occupational therapy is beyond the right career choice for me.

What are some of your passions outside of OT?

Outside of work I like to keep busy; you will rarely find me just sitting or alone. I have a passion for traveling, reading, cooking, and trying new restaurants – one of the many perks of living in Philadelphia. I have recently picked up crocheting and have many started projects that need to be completed.  When it is warm, I love being outside and playing kickball with some of my Magee colleagues.

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