How a New Recreation Therapy Program Creates Valuable Bonds

The Recreation Therapy Alumni Program is a new addition to Renown Rehabilitation Hospital’s current programs. After daily hospital physical therapy ends, it is an opportunity for other adventures. Shaun Stewart, CTRS (Ceritified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist), tells us about the new Renown Alumni Recreation Therapy Program, its partnership with the City of Reno and upcoming events.

It’s no secret that being active and social supports a satisfying, happy life. With this in mind, the Renown Alumni Recreation Therapy Program reinforces this idea. Its goal is to help patients experience the energy, teamwork and commitment that sports and recreation provide beyond the hospital walls.

“We are happy to partner with the City of Reno’s adaptive and inclusion programming to create an active community of adaptive sports participants. There are many options for outdoor recreation in our area. This program looks to share these opportunities with those with a traumatic spinal cord injury,” says Shaun.

April Wolfe, CTRS, with the City of Reno adds, “The program’s main objective is to empower individuals living with spinal cord injury to live and recreate independently in the community. We also want them to enjoy the activities, improving their emotional and physical well-being by taking part in the Renown Alumni Recreation Therapy program.”

First Successful Therapy Event

On Aug. 27, 2020, the recreation therapy program’s first event was an introduction to adaptive mountain biking. Eight participants enjoyed a morning of adaptive biking thanks to a grant in partnership with the City of Reno.

“Getting back to an active leisure lifestyle following injury can increase your quality of life both socially and physically,” explains Shaun. “It was great to be outside with people of all abilities enjoying the beautiful Nevada sunshine.”

We encourage patients of all abilities to develop active skills, make lasting friendships and, of course, have a blast. Certainly any activity is possible with adaptive equipment and a motivated attitude.

Future Recreation Therapy Events

Below are the details for the next event.

Event: Introduction to Wheelchair Rugby

Learn the rules of the sport and play with local athletes.

When: Sunday, Nov. 1, from 2 – 5 p.m.

Where: Evelyn Mount Northeast Community Center, 1301 Valley Rd., Reno, NV 89512

Cost: Free

RSVP: Shaun.Stewart@renown.org or 775-982-3612 by Tuesday, October 26, 2020

This event has a 10 participant limit, following six feet distancing guidelines. Please bring a mask to wear. In particular, this will be a learning event and no scrimmages will occur Rugby wheelchairs will be provided. Please RSVP, to ensure the reservation of the appropriate equipment.

In case you cannot attend this event, please look for upcoming events which will include adaptive archery, skiing and scuba diving.

Renown Rehabilitation Hospital | 775-982-3500

Renown Rehabilitation Hospital is the region’s only hospital with certification by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

It is certified for:

Comprehensive Integrated Inpatient Rehabilitation Program
Stroke Specialty Program
Medical Rehabilitation Case Management

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