During National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute hosted a heartfelt reunion between past patients, their families, and the teams that provided care for them.

“This celebration is a time to honor the incredible work, unwavering dedication, and transformative impact of rehabilitation professionals and the patients they serve,” said Tom Hoy, executive administrator, Musculoskeletal, Neuroscience, and Rehabilitation Services, UPMC in North Central Pa. “It’s a tribute to resilience, a celebration of progress, of big milestones and quiet victories, and a reminder of the meaningful relationships formed during recovery.”

The event featured an afternoon of reconnection, where patients and their loved ones were able to share their stories, visit with staff members, and reflect on their journeys.

Rehabilitation professionals from multiple disciplines — including physical, occupational, and speech therapy — were recognized for their role in helping patients regain independence and quality of life.

In addition to the reunion, two special awards were presented:

• The Connie Shaffer Award for Excellence was presented to Jennifer Weatherill, physical therapist, UPMC Williamsport, who was recognized for excellence in demonstration of UPMC’s Core Values as well as the ability to demonstrate empathy towards those undergoing rehabilitation.

• The Richard Leidhecker Life Purpose Award was awarded to Christopher Heim in recognition of his empowering of others by rising above challenges and leading by example as a champion for rehabilitation.

“These awards reflect the spirit of rehabilitation — celebrating perseverance, teamwork, and the life-changing impact of compassionate care,” Hoy added.

To learn more about UPMC Rehabilitation Institute services in northcentral Pennsylvania, go to UPMC.com/RehabNCPA.