Belmont’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) students helped kids to give thanks to their family and friends at the 2019 Nashville Buddy Walk, organized by the Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee (DSAMT). Students helped the children make thank-you cards to give to their loved ones, using handprints and stencils, all in time to celebrate Thanksgiving.
The annual Nashville Buddy Walk celebrates and supports individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The event aims to promote understanding and acceptance of those with Down syndrome.
Occupational Therapy Department Professor Dr. Natalie Michaels and her students work at a table for Belmont University each year. During the event, they interact with the children and families to inform them about Belmont University and the benefits of both occupational therapy and physical therapy. Dozens of children colored thank-you cards, and many families expressed gratitude to Dr. Michaels and the Belmont students.
Students working with Dr. Michaels this year included Cassie Howe, Savannah MacIsaac, Emily Sonni, Ashley Rabuck, Jensen Anderson, Heather Ribolla, Marshall Dumas, Libby Robinson, Chloe Moore, Ashley Phillips, Sarah Parkinson, Pooja Patel, Katie Hartline, Chandni Vyas, Gabi Swiecki, MacKenzie Vanderbloomen, Payton Knupp, Amy Mack, Callie Emerson and Meredith Maines.
