Kelsey in o&p lab

Aug 05, 2019 / Spotlight

Get to Know our SRH Staff: Kelsey Thompson, Orthotics and Prosthetics

What is your role at the hospital? What do you do on a daily basis? 
I am one of two practitioners for the Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P) department in Frisco. When I describe my job to others, I tell them I make and fit modern-day Forrest Gump braces and artificial legs and arms. I specialize in lower extremity orthotics and scoliosis bracing. My days are spent either in clinic, measuring/fitting devices, and documenting or modifying casts for the fabrication of those devices. 
 
What led you to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children? How long have you worked here?
I worked in private practice before coming to Scottish Rite Hospital. That required a very large work load and being on call. When the opportunity opened up here, I didn’t hesitate. I knew I was going to be able to do what was best for the patient and not have to deal with the stresses of private practice. I have had the privilege of being with the hospital for three and a half years.
 
What do you enjoy most about Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children?
I love the collaboration with the clinic team. I think that is what sets us apart from other places. I also love that no matter what, we can do what is best for the patient.
 
What was your first job? What path did you take to get here?
I worked as a sales associate at the Nike store in the San Marcos outlet mall and absolutely loved it. I loved helping people find athletic shoes that were the right fit for their feet. This opened my eyes to biomechanics and eventually finding out about O&P my senior year at Texas A&M. 
 
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to travel, especially to mountainous areas. I spend a lot of time at church, whether it be attending service or volunteering in the children’s ministry. I also love watching sports and working out.
 
Three words to best describe you:
Dedicated, passionate, independent
 
What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
Before I found out about O&P, I wanted to work for Nike designing athletic shoes. Not the graphic side, but the structural design. I have also thought about full-time vocational ministry.
 
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
Hiked the sixth highest mountain, Uncompahgre Peak, in Colorado last summer. It was the hardest and most exhilarating thing I have ever done in my life. I plan to hike more 14ers (mountain peaks exceeding 14,000 feet) in the future.
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