Hi Neuro Nerds! Here you will find a brief introduction to how TheBrainyOT came to be, as well information on some of my favorite projects that I've participated in since starting.
When I created the "TheBrainyOT" instagram last year, it was following a conversation with fellow OT-grammer @heartof.ot. She and I were talking about our passions, what drives us, and what we want for our futures beyond the typical 9-5 job (obviously OT is so much more than that!). I've always had a borderline obsession with the brain -seriously... I even have a tattoo of it!- as well as a strong desire to be the change that I wish to see in health care. That "change", largely revolving around empowering and educating others to make the best choices for their health, begins with increasing awareness and access to information to boost health literacy- especially to the brain-injured and at-risk population! And so, TheBrainyOT was born!
One of my first projects on TheBrainyOT was a challenge I created for the month of May to celebrate Stroke Awareness Month, #NeuroAtoZ. This challenge quickly grew the page and received a lot of positive feedback! Over the next couple of days I will be uploading the #NeuroAtoZ topics on this blog individually to increase accessibility for education and reference!
In May I was interviewed by Nathalie of Heart of OT for her blog (https://heartofot.com/interview-with-a-stroke-certified-occupational-therapist/). We conversed about my background (both professional and personal) and then dove into my certification (Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist) which I acquired earlier in 2019. I also answered questions regarding clinical practice and stroke rehabilitation. I loved the opportunity to be interviewed about one of my greatest passions- working as an occupational therapist in neurological rehabilitation.
In August, I was invited by Mandy Chamberlain to speak on her Seniors Flourish Podcast. This was the most rewarding experience and I couldn't be prouder of how the podcast episode came out! I decided to speak about the 10 Principles of Neuroplasticity, sharing my experiences as an OT practitioner in neurological rehabilitation and the importance of addressing the principles with each client. Interesting research studies and new advancements in clinical practice were discussed. You can access the podcast episode by visiting: https://seniorsflourish.com/neuroplasticity-stroke-occupational-therapy/.
Mandy also made a pdf document, available at the link above, for practitioners to share with their clients to address the principles and empower the clients with evidence based research!
November brought along another podcast episode opportunity, this time with Brock Cook of Occupied Podcast. This podcast episode was in an open interview format and the conversation just flew! The questions flowed seamlessly- we spoke about my previous position in a Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC), the importance of environment and social context/support for optimal outcomes, stroke services (both medical and support), and so much more. Brock has a way with words and listening to a lovely Australian accent for ~83 minutes is definitely a bonus! You can access this podcast episode by visiting: http://www.brockcook.com/055-2/.
These past couple of months have been more than I could've asked for. In the new year, I aim to continue growing TheBrainyOT. This growth will come in a number of ways- including more frequent blog posts, guest lectures, attending AOTA 2020 in Boston (who else is going!?), and participating in collaborations with fellow OT instagrammers!
Thank you for joining me on this journey to start bridging the gap between knowledge and action.
Lobe,
Crystal, @thebrainyot