Background

Growing up in Gothenburg offered me multiple opportunities to grow and learn from a family of ranchers. My family owns and operates Broken Hills Ranch just south of Brady, Nebraska, and the values I have taken from my upbringing have shaped my entire belief system. I have experienced first-hand the joys and excitement of everyday ranch work, but also have seen the impact it can have on the body and the mind. This pressbook demonstrates those key values for a population that is important to me and how occupational therapy can assist with daily occupations and tasks to make life easier. By advocating for farmers and ranchers, I hope to assist with alleviating pain and common stressors that accompany the toiling work done by the hardest-working people on the planet.

Career Goals

Focus on Agricultural Rehabilitation: Pursue a career in occupational therapy with a specialization in working with farmers and ranchers, focusing on injury prevention and rehabilitation. This includes developing expertise in assistive technology and adaptive strategies to help individuals with disabilities continue their work in agriculture safely.

Advocate for Inclusive Agricultural Practices: Work as an advocate for farmers and ranchers with disabilities by collaborating with local and national organizations. The goal is to raise awareness about the importance of injury prevention and to help dismantle the stigma surrounding the use of rehabilitation and health services in rural communities.

Develop Educational Programs for Rural Health: Create and implement educational initiatives aimed at preventing musculoskeletal injuries among agricultural workers. This could involve conducting workshops, training sessions, and outreach programs that provide essential resources and knowledge to farmers, ranchers, and their families, ensuring the continuation of safe agricultural practices.