Morris Hospital physical therapist is a ‘professional who gets the best therapy results’

Morris Hospital recently recognized physical therapist Renee Joder of Minooka as its July Fire Starter of the Month.

A news release from Morris Hospital said Joder is ‘thorough, funny, and inspirational’ and goes out of her way to connect with her patients.

“Renee is an excellent, experienced therapist who brings the ‘A’ game every day,” Sarah Wrightson, manager of rehabilitation Services at Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers, said in the release. “She places high emphasis on educating patients so they can be successful at their next level of care, and she has a sense of humor that draws people in. She’s consistent with her approach; it never waivers.”

When Joder learned a patient loved 50s, 60s & 80s music, Joder asked the patient’s daughter for the patient’s favorite songs and then created a playlist for her phone to use during the therapy sessions.

“We’d spend a good hour in therapy,” Joder said in the release. “And hearing her favorite songs made the sessions easier for the patient by totally distracting her from what she was doing.”

Joder has brought in reading glasses, puzzles, and photos for patients – and even a phone stand for one patient who struggled to hold his phone. She even celebrates her patients’ birthdays during their hospital stay.

“We all try to make things a little lighter, especially for patients who are in here for a lengthier time,” Joder said in the release. “It’s fun to bring something in to lift their spirits and bring a smile to their face.”

Occupational Therapist Jennifer Kumrow said in the release that Joder is a “professional who gets the best therapy results.”

“Renee is a true patient advocate who goes the extra 10 miles for each patient,” Kumrow said in the release. “Her excellent customer service resonates with the doctors and patients’ family members as well.”

Mostly Joder wants patients to meet their goals – and she has fun helping them.

“We are trying as hard as we can to help the patients get home or discharged to wherever they are going and to help both the patient and the family be prepared,” Joder said in the release. “The collaboration with our multi-disciplinary team is rewarding. It’s nice to be part of a team that’s looking out for best interest of patient.”

For more information, visit morrishospital.org.