At a young age, Physical Therapist Mary Frangus, MSPT, witnessed first-hand the importance of physical therapy. It gave her a deep understanding of what really matters to patients. A goal of getting back to the life you love. Safely and confidently. And Mary strives to do just that with a multi-tiered approach to understanding the whole patient. Meet Mary.
Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I was born and raised in NJ and moved to CT in my early 20s. I went to grad school in CT and have been here ever since. I currently live in Monroe with my husband and our two children.
How long have you been at RVNA?
I have been with RVNAhealth for about 2.5 years as an in-home physical therapist.
What brought you here?
I had worked in a skilled nursing facility for over 25 years and was looking for a change. I very much enjoyed the patients I met and worked with in the skilled nursing facility, but wanted to have a greater sense of what barriers and limitations they might face upon return home.
Describe your role at RVNA.
My role as an RVNAhealth in-home physical therapist gives me the ability to address the issues I described above first-hand for a safer environment and long-term success at home.
What is your favorite part of your job?
In high school, I had knee surgery, requiring physical therapy. This was my first introduction to the profession. My PT helped me return to being an active teenager, and I was so grateful to her. I wanted to be able to help people like she did for me. As I focused on my career path, I found helping folks get back to living, in their own homes, was the most fulfilling.
Did you ever consider becoming a nurse?
I always knew from a very young age that I would choose a career that allowed me to help people.
What do you love to do when you’re not working?
I enjoy the outdoors, hiking, and working in our yard/gardens. I also enjoy reading when I find a moment to sit still. As much as I love being home, I like to travel and would plan more adventures if time and funds allowed.
What would you do if you won the lottery?
I would take the opportunity to travel and increase my opportunities to get together with extended family.
Do you have any favorite RVNAhealth moments or stories?
The moments that I find the most fulfilling and enjoyable are when I am collaborating with other RVNA disciplines (like skilled nursing, occupational and speech therapy) to provide cohesive care for our patients. Problem-solving to help a complex patient situation is always something that makes me enjoy the people I work with and the agency I provide care for each day.
My sense of purpose as ‘a helper’ was recently renewed when I performed the Heimlich maneuver on a stranger who was choking in a parking lot. She was needing help and I am so grateful that I happened to be there in her moment of need. I now look forward to seeing her smiling face in that same parking lot, as our paths cross again time after time.
What’s your hidden talent?
I asked my kids (the experts) and was told that I could make a quiche with my eyes closed. That’s their breakfast of choice.
What are you going to be for Halloween?
A soccer Mom. No costume needed. 🙂
