HealthLinks Upstate Jan-April 2023

46 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com Dr. Elizabeth Eldridge How would you describe your journey to becoming the doctor you are today? At the beginning of my journey, I felt almost intimidated by how much there was to learn. When I was a fresh graduate, I was proud of my understanding of the workings of the human body. Now, as an experienced doctor of physical therapy, I am aware of how much more there is to learn. One thing I love about my journey is that it is not over yet. As a child, did you think you’d be where you are today professionally? Nope. Growing up as a dancer, I aspired to be a Radio City Rockette. Alas, genetics were not on my side as I do not meet the height requirement of 5 feet, 6 inches. (Thanks, Mom and Grandma.) I did not know that I would be a physical therapist, and, sadly, I didn't even know about physical therapy as a child. I'm thankful my path took me where it did. Dr. Lydia Glass Who or what inspires you? My desire and passion to help women regain their lives and reach their goals. My patients/clients inspire me every day. I celebrate their victories and success, share their tears and encourage and support them along the way. What routines and habits help you prepare for, or recover from, a day’s challenges? Just breathe. Mindfulness and meditation, such as box breathing, can be very helpful for me. I often try to focus on the big picture and not worry about the little things. Exercise is also a great stress reliever whenever I can fit that into my day, whether that be a walk outdoors, kickboxing, dancing or high-intensity interval training. Taking a hot bath occasionally at the end of the day also does wonders. Dr. Yvonne Ferrufino How would you describe your journey to becoming the doctor you are today? I like to say I took the scenic route into physical therapy. When I was a young dancer, the dream was Broadway. But I was too practical and craved stability. At the same time, I was recovering from one injury after another. I got a job as a rehab tech at a local neuro rehab center and saw how therapists help people get back their lives through creativity and movement – and I was hooked. My dance training and understanding of how a body lives is still of service to me and to others. My dream evolved and the rest is history. Dr. Ashlee De Nooy As a child, did you think you’d be where you are today professionally? I knew I wanted to be a physical therapist since I was a freshman in high school. I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. I love learning about the body, and I’m a people person, so it was a perfect fit. Becoming a mother sent me on a new path. Starting a women’s health practice specializing in pelvic floor physical therapy came as a dream when I was pregnant with my third child. I’m grateful for what it has evolved into, the women that have been and are a part of this journey and the lives being changed across the Upstate! Dr. Yvonne Ferrufino, PT, DPT Dr. Elizabeth Eldridge, PT, DPT, OCS Dr. Ashlee De Nooy, PT, DPT Dr. Lydia Glass, PT, DPT BODYWORKS WOMEN’S HEALTH & WELLNESS Greer 864-236-8146 bodyworks-physicaltherapy.com Photo by Carin Scates Photography. MEN WI N HEALTH Left to right: Dr. Yvonne Ferrufino, PT, DPT, Dr. Elizabeth Eldridge, PT, DPT, OCS, Samantha Mills, Dr. Ashlee De Nooy, PT, DPT, Dr. Lydia Glass, PT, DPT, Danielle Moore

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