What is your name?
Laila Gammon
What is your role at ARC Physical Therapy+?
I am a Physical Therapist Assistant
What year did you begin working at ARC Physical Therapy+?
2020
Where are you from?
I grew up in Oklahoma, but have lived in the Springfield, Missouri area for the last 7 years.
Where did you go to school?
I received my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Pittsburg State University in 2010. Most recently I attended Ozarks Technical Community College to receive my degree in 2020 to become a Physical Therapist Assistant.
Who or what inspired you to get into the physical therapy space?
Years ago I thought I wanted to work in the law field, which is the reason I pursued a degree in Criminal Justice. I ended up working as a legal assistant for 10 years and I can’t lie, I hated it. Physical therapy is something I had always been interested in, especially once I began working out regularly again. The problem was, I didn’t think I’d be able to go back to school so late in life. After years of debating, I decided that it is never too late to pursue a career that makes you happy. At the age of 30, I decided to go back to school to become a Physical Therapist Assistant.
What do you like most about your work at ARC Physical Therapy+?
I really love the interactions I have with people. I love seeing the excitement when a patient is able to accomplish something they had been struggling with. I love the relationships I am able to build with patients and although I’m happy when they are discharged, it can be bittersweet sometimes. I also really like how well I get along with Melissa Shelton, Lead Therapist in our clinic. It makes a big difference when you like the people you work next to.
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about the body or physical therapy?
Don’t be afraid of physical therapy! Everyone seems to be afraid of physical therapy and they shouldn’t be. The body is amazing at healing, and we are here to help in that healing process. We truly want to see you get better and we like to laugh and have fun with you in that process.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Free time is hard to come by nowadays! I love to spend as much time as I can with my daughter. I also really enjoy Crossfit, hanging out with friends and family, doing anything outside in the sunshine, watching football, and going to as many concerts as I can.
How do you like to celebrate a win or a good day?
I always enjoy going out to eat with friends or family, preferably at a place that serves margaritas.☺
What is your favorite quote or saying?
This is something I have had to repeat to myself often and it is something that has been “quoted” by a slew of different people.
“Everything happens for a reason”
I truly believe that, though. That and knowing that God has a plan helps get me through the hardest of times.
Favorite Sports Team?
Dallas Cowboys, Oklahoma football, KC Royals and Sporting KC. I love them all!
Sweet or salty?
My sweet tooth gets the best of me.
Coffee or tea?
Coffee (black)
Beach or mountains?
Mountains only because I’ve never experienced the mountains like I have the beach.
Go out or stay in?
Go out!
What inspires you?
My daughter is my biggest inspiration. She inspires me to be a better person every day. Everything I do and every choice I make is to make her life better.
