Sharing our REHAB knowledge and expertise is an investment in the health of future REHAB patients. The REHAB Volunteer and Student Affiliation Program is designed to support the development of future professionals by providing shadowing experiences in a real-world clinical environment. Whether someone is interested in exploring the field as a volunteer or completing an internship rotation on track to their degree, program participants gain hands-on experience in rehabilitation therapy and the broader healthcare settings.
The road to REHAB starts with a passion for helping people, and we’re pleased to partner with like-minded individuals as they forge their paths in the rehabilitation field. Read on to hear from three members of Team REHAB who are doing just that: a clinical volunteer, student intern and physical therapy assistant!
Makenna Kawamura, Clinical Therapy Volunteer
With her sights set on becoming an occupational therapist, Makenna Kawamura began volunteering at REHAB to get firsthand experience in the field while completing her degree in exercise science. Inspired by her own grandmother’s transformative time as an inpatient at REHAB, Makenna knew she wanted to have a similar impact on future patients’ recovery. “My favorite part of volunteering is getting to know the patients and seeing their recovery progress,” Makenna shared. “Building relationships with people, cheering them on while they do an exercise and witnessing milestones is incredibly rewarding.”
As a clinical volunteer, Makenna shadows REHAB’s occupational therapists to experience the ins and outs of a typical day. Along the way, she’s learned rehabilitation exercises and treatments for different illnesses and injuries and has also grown her confidence when speaking with patients about their goals and challenges. Makenna shared, “I’ve learned that each patient has a unique journey to recovery, so it’s important to meet each person where they are at. It’s about encouraging people to push while also making sure they feel comfortable and safe.”
Austin Okubo, Doctorate of Physical Therapy Student Intern
As a Doctorate of Physical Therapy student at the University of Puget Sound, Aiea-native Austin Okubo felt called to return home to Hawaii for his first clinical rotation. He always envisioned himself in an inpatient setting and jumped at the chance to intern at REHAB, the only rehabilitation hospital in the state. “I felt that with access to the best technology and mentors in the field, REHAB would help me learn and grow astronomically as a person and as a physical therapist,” Austin said.
Since starting his internship, Austin has developed his clinical, communication and interpersonal skills. “I’ve learned that it’s incredibly important to work as a team between disciplines to provide the best possible care to the patients. Team REHAB really cares about their patients and each other, which makes for a great work environment.” Though the work has been challenging at times, Austin reflected, “...I think that’s what makes this experience that much more special and worthwhile.”
Kayla Rondeau, Physical Therapy Assistant
REHAB Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA), Kayla Rondeau, began her career at REHAB as a student intern where she sharpened her clinical and decision making skills under the guidance of REHAB’s staff. “My clinical instructor, Kelsey, really paved the best learning path for me. That, paired with the satisfaction of watching patients progress in their abilities, made me want to pursue a more permanent position at REHAB!”
In her new role as a physical therapy assistant, Kayla now spends her days on each of REHAB’s floors helping patients with orthopedic to neurological conditions. “As a PTA, I perform physical therapy treatment for patients that follows the best plan of care created by the physical therapists,” Kayla explained. “Interacting with patients who are really motivated is always a great part of my day. Their ambition and drive to improve their function keeps my energy high.”
From observing her clinical instructor conduct an educated and emotionally-grounded conversation with a patient, to helping her own patient regain their ability to walk, Kayla’s career at REHAB thus far has been transformative and inspiring. “These experiences have fueled my desire to keep building my knowledge so I can make a lasting difference in the lives of my patients,” Kayla shared. “You have to be willing to physically and emotionally put in the work for your patients, and man, is it rewarding.”
For more information visit our volunteers page or contact Melissa Mullen at melissa.mullen@rehabhospital.org.