Anna Marie Lewellen, MPT   Hollister Physical Therapy, Inc

I have a special passion for working with children.  Children with developmental delays are close to my heart.  During my training and early in my career as a physical therapist, I found that most PT's are not comfortable working with children at all, especially ones who have disabilities.  I find it very rewarding and a lot of fun to work with little ones.  I have started with newborns and seen their development into mainstream schooling.  I find joy in working with any children.

Many "disabled" children have received extensive rehabilitation from the public services available.  The therapists who work "in the system" are fabulous and effective, but limited by the bureaucracy.  Many of my patients (or their parents rather) have been frustrated by delays and sought my care outside the system.     I am pleased to offer a little less restrictive approach to pediatric rehabilitation. 

TESTIMONIAL: 

It's a parent's worst nightmare to learn their child has been sexually abused.  My son was seven years old when that nightmare came to light.  He had been wetting the bed, having nightmares with constant aches and pains all over his body.  He was very introverted and extremely stressed.  The stress even affected his blood counts and general health.  He was just a mess!  The pediatrician suggested that in addition to counseling, my son might benefit from physical therapy to help him with the tension.  I had heard about Anna at Hollister Physical Therapy, because several of my family members and friends had seen her for various issues. 

The first time Anna saw my son, he was one big knot of tension and anxiety.  Anna could feel the stress in his little body.  Week after week, Anna patiently and lovingly worked on my son.  She helped him to relax and to let go of the stress he held inside.  My son always looked forward to seeing Anna and he felt safe with her.   

Anna continued to see my son weekly (and sometimes twice a week), then every other week as he continued to heal.  Anna played a vital role in my son's ability to function and cope from the abuse he suffered.  I am quite sure that if my son had not gone to Anna, he would have ended up with an ulcer or worse. 

My son is now eleven years old.  He no longer has nightmares nor wets the bed.  He is a happy, well adjusted and confident little boy.  He is a straight-A student, and only a couple of karate belts away from being a black belt!  It was a long journey and I will forever be grateful to Anna for helping my son through a very traumatic time in his life.  She truly has healing hands! 

- Anonymous