Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month at South County Health 

Occupational therapy plays a vital role in modern healthcare, helping patients regain the skills needed to live safely after illness, injury, or significant medical events. Whether recovering from surgery, adapting after a stroke, or managing complex conditions, occupational therapists focus on the “how” of everyday life through a whole-person approach that addresses physical, cognitive, emotional, and environmental needs. Therapists work closely with patients to rebuild confidence in daily tasks like dressing, eating, bathing, communication, and returning to work or home life, while also supporting safe transitions after discharge through education, adaptive strategies, and hands-on training that promote long-term independence.

At South County Health, this work is an essential part of recovery, and in honor of Occupational Therapy Month, we recognize the impact of this care and the professionals behind it.

To illustrate this work, we look at the work of Occupational Therapist Andrea Sumner. Andrea’s compassionate, patient-centered approach helps individuals navigate some of their most difficult health journeys. Through her work, and the experiences of the patients she has guided, we see how occupational therapy restores not just function, but independence, dignity, and hope.

Understanding the Role of Occupational Therapy 

As Andrea explains, occupational therapy in an acute care setting goes far beyond basic daily tasks.

“Occupational therapy is about restoring a patient’s independence and rebuilding their confidence while addressing the physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges that follow a major illness or injury.”

Within the hospital, OT supports safe function, self-care, and mobility while also reducing the risk of hospital readmission through education, adaptive strategies, and discharge planning. Andrea emphasizes a holistic, patient-centered approach that focuses on helping each individual return to the activities that give their life meaning.

Patient Story: Barbara — Recovery After Stroke

After experiencing a stroke, Barbara began working with Andrea during a challenging and uncertain time.

“After my stroke, Andrea gave me exactly the care I needed… She’s incredibly compassionate and has such a warm, encouraging personality, which made a huge difference in my recovery.”

Over time, Barbara saw meaningful progress in her speech and communication abilities. 

“I’m now speaking in longer, more complex sentences… Recovery has been a long road, but Andrea has been a steady source of support and guidance every step of the way.”

She adds that her patient experience at South County Health has been the best she has had in years highlighting the impact of consistent, compassionate care. 

Patient Story: Tracy — Restoring Confidence and Function

Tracy came to occupational therapy with high expectations—and left deeply impressed by the level of care she received.

“Andrea is both incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate, and she showed so much patience throughout my care.”

With a daughter who is also an occupational therapist, Tracy had a strong understanding of the field going in.

“She really took the time to understand my needs… Andrea truly listens, cares, and goes above and beyond for her patients. She was everything I hoped for in a therapist and more.”

A meaningful moment for Tracy was Andrea’s effort to connect with her daughter, reinforcing the collaborative and personal nature of her care.

Patient Story: Sarah — Relearning Independence

Following a severe bout of diverticulitis and a 16-day hospital stay, Sarah faced the challenge of adjusting to life with a colostomy bag. During her inpatient recovery, she worked closely with Andrea.

“Andrea spent a lot of time with me. She was patient, diligent, and caring… She advocated for me, and she taught both me and my husband so much.”

Through hands-on education and encouragement, Sarah regained confidence in managing her care.

“She encouraged me to practice, she pushed me to learn, so that I could regain my independence.”

Sarah ultimately returned to her physically demanding job and later had her ostomy reversed in January 2026, remaining deeply grateful for the care she received.

The Heart of Occupational Therapy

In her nine years at South County Hospital, Andrea has seen how essential occupational therapy is in helping patients truly recover after illness or injury. Ultimately, she reflects, “We don't just help people get through the day; we help them get back to their lives.”

Occupational Therapists like Andrea support individuals in rebuilding essential skills and returning to the activities that matter most to them. The experiences of patients such as Barbara, Tracy, and Sarah highlight how this work goes beyond recovery, it restores dignity, fosters resilience, and helps people live their lives the way they choose.