Rachel Foley
Occupational Therapist
"Watching residents build strength and confidence through the program I created is incredibly rewarding."
Rachel has worked in rehabilitation for about seven years, primarily helping older adults maintain or regain their independence and quality of life.
A moment that reminded her why she does this work
"The most meaningful moments happen when a patient accomplishes something they thought they had permanently lost the ability to do. Seeing someone regain their confidence and independence, even in daily tasks like dressing themselves, walking to the dining room, or safely completing a routine, reminds me exactly why I chose this profession."
A win from this year
One of Rachel's favorite wins has been watching residents make incredible progress through Stronger Living, a program she created to help them stay active, strong, and as independent as possible. "Seeing someone build physical strength and confidence, and then carry those gains over into their everyday life, is incredibly rewarding."
What people outside the field don't understand
"Occupational therapy is about so much more than exercise. We look at the whole person and focus on what is truly meaningful to them. If someone spent their life painting, drawing, teaching, or singing, that isn't just a hobby, it is who they are. I take pride in understanding those lifelong passions and adapting their tools and environment so they can feel that joy and motivation again."
What Rachel would want for her own family
"I would want them to feel seen, heard, respected, and genuinely cared for, not just treated as a diagnosis or a room number. I would want them to know that their personal goals matter and that their care team is actively advocating for their independence, dignity, and quality of life."