Get to Know Kelly Bardosy, DPT: What Inspired Her to Work with Older Adults?
At Arise Physical Therapy, Dr. Kelly Bardosy brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to every patient she serves. With over 15 years of experience as a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Kelly is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of her patients. In this first installment of our “Get to Know Kelly” series, we explore the question: What inspired Kelly to pursue a career in physical therapy, specifically working with older adults?
A Passion Rooted in Childhood
Kelly’s journey into physical therapy began long before her professional training. Growing up in Kenosha, Wisconsin, she discovered her passion for serving others as a child. Her grandmother played a significant role in sparking this interest by introducing her to volunteer work at Brookside Nursing Home. Their church was deeply involved with the nursing home, and Kelly would often tag along, spending time with residents. These early experiences planted the seeds of her lifelong love for working with older adults.
“I started enjoying working with the elderly at such a young age,” Kelly recalls. “It was something I looked forward to, and it shaped how I saw service and connection.”
A Commitment to Service in High School
In high school, Kelly took her passion for helping older adults to the next level. As president of her school’s Key Club, a service organization, she spearheaded projects that focused on giving back to the elderly community. One initiative, “Adopt a Grandparent,” gained local attention, even landing in the Kenosha News. The program paired students with nursing home residents for regular visits, fostering meaningful relationships and breaking down generational barriers.
“I loved visiting and getting to know the residents,” Kelly shares. “It felt so natural to me. My friends and I had such a great time creating these connections and brightening someone’s day.”
A Lifelong Calling
This passion stayed with Kelly throughout college and her early career. Any opportunity—whether it was an internship, volunteer project, or job—always seemed to align with working with older adults.
“I’ve loved working with geriatrics my whole life!” Kelly says. “It feels like I won the lottery getting to do this professionally. I’ve always thought, ‘Doesn’t everyone love this as much as I do?’ My husband had to point out to me that not everyone shares this passion—it truly feels like a calling.”
Grateful for the Opportunity
For Kelly, working with older adults isn’t just a job; it’s a joy. Her ability to combine her personal passion with her professional expertise is something she’s deeply grateful for.
“I’m so happy to have the opportunity to do what I love,” she says. “My passion aligns perfectly with my professional life, and I couldn’t be more thankful.”
Stay Tuned for More!
This is just the first chapter in our “Get to Know Kelly” series. Stay tuned for more insights into Kelly’s life, career, and the unique perspective she brings to Arise Physical Therapy. In the meantime, if you or a loved one could benefit from Kelly’s compassionate care, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Together, let’s rise to better health!
