What is your name?
Lisa Simon
What is your role at ARC Physical Therapy+?
Administrative Assistant at East Wichita ARCPT+ Clinic
What year did you begin working at ARC Physical Therapy+?
March 2022
Where are you from?
I was raised in Topeka, KS and currently live in Andale, KS.
Where did you go to school?
Hayden High School
Washburn University – BS in Biology
Washburn University – AS in Physical Therapist Assistant
Who or what inspired you to get into physical therapy?
I worked as a research lab assistant at the VA Hospital in Kansas City, MO for a couple of years after graduating with my Biology 
degree. One day they had a Veteran’s Wheelchair Olympics Day and I volunteered to help. I realized I really enjoyed helping people and seeing them achieve their goals. Because of that experience, I decided to go back to school to become a CPTA. I worked as a CPTA for about 22 years and really enjoyed it. After being laid off and developing a back condition (spondylolisthesis), I decided to do something different and less physically demanding. I thought being an admin at a physical therapy clinic was a way to still be involved in the PT world and help people but in a slightly different way.
What do you like most about your work at ARC Physical Therapy+?
I like the patient interaction at the front desk and enjoy working with my new co-workers. They have been very patient and understanding of this “old dog learning new tricks.”
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about the body or physical therapy?
Physical therapy can be very beneficial but you have to work at it at home as well as in the clinic. Home Exercise Programs are very important and their implementation is necessary for overall success.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy making scrapbooks
of the trips my husband and I have taken over the years, going to movies, taking walks, family game nights, listening to music, going to antique shops or flea markets, and decorating my home for the different holidays and seasons.
How do you like to celebrate a win or a good day?
I usually go shopping – generally for something I can add to my many collections or home holiday/seasonal decorations.
What is your favorite quote?
“I can’t change the direction of the wind but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.”
Sweet or salty?
Both, in moderation.
Beach or mountains?
Mountains
Go out or stay in?
It depends on how I feel. I am usually a homebody but sometimes I like to go shopping or go out to the movies.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I have an extensive Jim Shore and Disney Snow globe collection. They are mainly displayed in the basement of my home: my “Disney Room.” My sister-in-law often says I should charge admission. I’m sure my husband would like the extra income.
What is your best joke?
“Do you know why I don’t like stairs? Because they are always up to something.” Physical therapists might enjoy that one.
What patients/diagnoses are you most excited about treating?
I don’t currently treat patients but when I was a CPTA I was most comfortable with and enjoyed treating orthopedic (total hip and total knee) patients.
What inspires you?
Anyone who works hard and doesn’t give up no matter what comes their way. I have seen many patients over the years who display this attitude and it always inspires me.
