Celebrating Our Physical Therapy Team During National Physical Therapy Month
October is National Physical Therapy Month, and we’re proud to shine a spotlight on the dedicated Physical Therapy team at Brooks-TLC Hospital. This month, we’re celebrating the compassionate professionals who help patients regain strength, mobility, and independence every day. Their work embodies what makes Brooks-TLC special, a place where exceptional care and genuine compassion come together to keep care close to home.
In honor of National Physical Therapy Month, we asked members of our Physical Therapy Department to share their thoughts on what makes Brooks-TLC such a meaningful place to work. Their words reflect the heart of our mission, a commitment to quality care, teamwork, and the patients who inspire them every day.
Here’s what they had to say:
Physical Therapists:
Toni Bixby: Physical Therapy Director
I have worked at BTLC for two months in the Physical Therapy Department. I was drawn to BTLC because of the positive culture and the hospital’s reputation for providing excellent care. My favorite part of working here is the friendly and caring staff. For anyone just joining the team, I would say don’t hesitate to ask questions, the staff here are amazing and always willing to help.
Heather Beaman: Physical Therapist Department Supervisor
I have worked at BTLC for six years in the Physical Therapy Department. I was drawn to BTLC because it is close to my family, and I wanted to work in a smaller hospital. My favorite part of working at BTLC is my co-workers in all departments and the great patients I have gotten to know. For anyone just joining the staff, I would say there is a lot of good work happening here and even more on the horizon.
Dayna Degenfelder: Physical Therapist
I have worked at BTLC for about a week and a half at the Gowanda Physical Therapy location, and I’m just getting started. I was drawn to BTLC because I am from the Gowanda area and wanted to work closer to home to help my community. I previously completed a clinical rotation here as a student, and returning felt natural because the therapists genuinely care about their patients and providing excellent care. My favorite part of working here is the community feeling, everyone is always willing to teach and collaborate to provide the best care possible. For anyone just joining the staff, I would say be open to feedback. Both positive and constructive feedback are valuable and help you grow and refine your skills as a therapist.
Tammy Kiszak: Senior Physical Therapist
I have been a practicing Physical Therapist for 35 years and have worked at Brooks for the past 15 years as a Senior Physical Therapist. I have always loved outpatient Physical Therapy and have focused on becoming the best at what I do. I am fully certified in Vestibular Assessment and Treatment and have developed a Balance Clinic at Brooks. I also manage the concussion program for return-to-play for a local orthopedic practice. My other areas of interest include working with shoulders and knees. I am happy that I established my roots here 15 years ago, building strong relationships with local doctors and serving the geriatric and Northern Chautauqua community. Brooks is a great place to call your second home.
Elyse Markham: Physical Therapist
I’ve been a Physical Therapist at Brooks-TLC Hospital since July 2025, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience. I first came to Brooks-TLC during my graduate program for clinical rotations and was impressed by how kind and supportive the staff were, providing me with the guidance and education I needed to grow as a therapist. Being close to home was an added bonus. My favorite part of working here is definitely my co-workers, the entire PT team is wonderful to collaborate with. My advice for new staff is to keep an open mind and build relationships with your teammates; it truly makes work more enjoyable.
Kristen Wallace: Physical Therapist
I was recruited for a position at BTLC after the director at the time heard I was traveling to Westfield every day and invited me to interview. I have worked here since July 2008, which was 17 years this past July, as a Physical Therapist in the Physical Therapy Department. My favorite part of working at BTLC is the care we are able to provide to our patients. Brooks allows us to spend time with patients and give the one-on-one care that many privately owned practices cannot. I also appreciate the reputation we have built in the community as a place that provides quality care.
Physical Therapy Assistants:
Nate Baker: Physical Therapy Assistant
I have worked at BTLC for six years as a Physical Therapy Assistant in the Physical Therapy Department. I initially applied because I was looking for full-time work. I did leave for a time but came back because I missed the people I work with. My favorite part of working here is helping patients feel better so they can do the things they enjoy in life.
Megan Covert: Physical Therapy Assistant
I have worked at BTLC for six years as a Physical Therapy Assistant. I didn’t originally apply for the position but was brought over from Lakeshore when it closed. My favorite part of working here is making connections with patients while helping them. For anyone just joining the staff, I would say be open and talk to everyone.
Nicole Mescall: Physical Therapy Assistant
I have worked at BTLC since July 2023 as a Physical Therapy Assistant. I applied because the job is close to home, and I wanted to help keep services local in the community. My favorite part of working here is the great co-workers, the fun atmosphere we create together, our amazing receptionist, and the people in the community. My advice for someone just joining the staff is to keep on keeping on and always smile.
John Owczarczak: Physical Therapy Assistant
I have worked at BTLC for about two and a half weeks as a Physical Therapy Assistant in the Physical Therapy Department. I joined BTLC to build my skills as a PTA and to work in an outpatient setting. My favorite part of working here is the supportive co-workers and supervisors, as well as the strong focus on patient care and improvement. For anyone just joining the staff, I would say take it day by day and learn from both your successes and mistakes. If you’re ever unsure about a task, don’t hesitate to ask for support.
Our Physical Therapy team plays a vital role in helping patients recover, rebuild, and regain confidence every day. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion reflect the very best of Brooks-TLC Hospital. This National Physical Therapy Month, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each member of the PT Department for the care they provide and the positive impact they make on our patients and community. We’re proud to have such an outstanding team keeping care close to home.
