October is National Physical Therapy Month! Physical therapists are an integral part of Team Magee, and in honor of this month, we’ll be introducing you to a member of our talented crew each week in October. Today’s spotlight is on Mark DeWane, PT, DPT, Team Leader of Magee’s NeuroRehabilitation Center.
Tell us a little bit more about your background.
I have been a PT for almost 15 years. I received my undergraduate degree from Ursinus College, and my graduate degree from Slippery Rock University. I have been a PT at Magee for almost 13 years!
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Walking everyone I can get my hands on, and also working on facilitation of the arm in patients with traumatic brain injury or stroke. I get really get jazzed up about it! I also love to serial cast with Colleen Johnson – it’s probably my favorite thing next to gait training.
Tell us about an experience that solidified for you that you made the right career choice.
Honestly, the minute I stepped my foot into Magee. I know this sounds crazy corny, but the level of devotion to our patients is second to none. I had worked at several other locales, and I had never experienced devotion on all levels and across all disciplines as there is here. The ability to provide mentorship is amazing here as well. I have learned so much from so many incredible therapists. I had never seen such skill level before coming here. And of course, I met Karen at Magee, my future wife and mother of my lovely children, who helps me strive to be a better person and therapist every day.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I spend most of my time doing fun stuff with my family. We like hiking, walking, swimming, sledding, biking, trains and farming/animals. I personally love to golf, and am a crazy sports fan.
Have any questions for Mark? Include them in the comments below! And if you’re interested in becoming a physical therapist, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) can tell you what it takes.
