Designed to educate and motivate, Spear’s #LetsKeepMoving Blog is our official stream of fitness tips, exercise advice, and healthy lifestyle inspiration. Our articles and features are written and produced in direct partnership with our physical and occupational therapists! Disclaimer
Alec Thomson is a seasoned and active New Yorker, often competing in various athletic competitions around the nation. Alec was training for his first Ironman Triathlon competition when he unexpectedly experienced a cycling accident, going head over handlebars in Central Park. Worried about how this would affect his ability to compete in the upcoming race, Alec was looking to jump right into physical therapy.
Alec began his search for a physical therapist. His first interaction with SPEAR ultimately influenced his decision to begin treatment with us. The care coordinator who took care of him asked a series of specific questions around his condition and goals. Alec was initially confused when offered an appointment at a SPEAR clinic further away from his home; when he expressed concern, the care coordinator indicated she felt this particular therapist was better-suited for handling Alec’s particular condition. “The fact that the scheduler understood what I was doing, understood what I wanted to do, and wanted me to get the most appropriate attention, brought me to SPEAR,” Alec says.
Alec worked with two therapists, mostly with Jimmy Olayos. Alec found that at SPEAR, he did not have just a therapist: he had what he fondly calls, “a family relationship—it was just a click.” Alec looked forward to his sessions: “the hustle of the day kind of fades away as I walk in. Somebody’s [always] smiling, there’s laughter and there’s camaraderie.”
Throughout his treatment, Alec prioritized getting his body to function properly, learning what he needed to return to his previous level of physical activity. Alec needed to focus on the basics before he could go full throttle: “those days leading up to the race, I was not running, I was not swimming, I was not biking; all I was doing was rehabbing my body,” he shares.
After many weeks of intensive physical therapy, Alec was able to compete in the Ironman competition—not only finishing, but doing pretty well! Alec is now able to live his full life and continue the sports he loves so much. “I still run, I still exercise, I still surf,” he proclaims. “SPEAR exceeded anything I could have ever thought of.”
Regarding our celebration of 20 years in service, Alec had this to say: “I want [SPEAR] to keep doing what you’re doing, and be all over the U.S. so I have access to what you do. Congratulations, 20 years is a big deal!”
We think so, too, Alec! Thank you for sharing your story with us!
