Going through physical rehabilitation can be difficult for even the strongest people.
In an effort to encourage those going through physical rehabilitation, Memorial Rehabilitation Institute held an Olympics-themed motivational event.
Each participant carried their home country’s flag while competing and during a parade at the Institute. In this parade, their version of the Olympic opening ceremony, each competitor flew their home nations flag while being cheered on by staff and friends.
“Our patients are like athletes. They go through trials and failures before they achieve success,” said Denise Maillet, the director of quality and patient safety at the Memorial Rehabilitation Institute. “The patients are often here for weeks and it can be hard. We want them to have fun.”
Lauren Thomas, Psy.D., at the Institute was glad to see patients having a good time. “We want to help the patients connect with the outside community. We want them to smile and have fun,” she said.
Alexander Pincone, a patient at the institute, enjoyed the event. “It helps to have fun,” he said.