Class of 2011/2012
Mrs. Birchler saw Maranda Charbonneau (am session) as both of us were leaving the Bay City H2Os restaurant with our respective friends on October 17, 2023. We didn't have time to exchange updates, but Maranda fondly remembers her time at the Career Center in PT/OT.
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CONGRATULATIONS to Tyler Janish (am session) on his graduation from the MSU Medical School and the birth of his son, Erickson John. Erickson was born to Tyler and Sarah on April 15th. They just bought a house in Grand Rapids as Tyler starts his orthopedic surgery residency on July 1, 2022. Tyler and Sarah just celebrated their third anniversary.
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March 31, 2022 update from Kayla Rychlicki (am session).
Kayla married in 2018, and Thane was born on December 2, 2021.
Kayla works in health information management at Covenant Hospital.
Congratulations, Kayla! Your son is adorable. :-)
Kayla married in 2018, and Thane was born on December 2, 2021.
Kayla works in health information management at Covenant Hospital.
Congratulations, Kayla! Your son is adorable. :-)
March 29, 2022 email up date from Tyler Janish (am session). Tyler and his wife Sarah are expecting their first child who is due April 15th. They will be moving from Marquette back to Grand Rapids because Tyler received his orthopedic surgery residency "match" with Spectrum in Grand Rapids. It is a five year residency and after that he can choose a one year fellowship or begin his orthopedic practice. He would like to set up practice in rural northern Michigan.
Congratulations, Tyler!
Congratulations, Tyler!
Once again, it is a small world. Mrs. Birchler was the musician for a funeral Mass at St. James Church on March 22, 2022. When the liturgy concluded a young woman approached saying, "I thought it was you." Breanna Jacobs (am session) was attending her grandmother's funeral. She had time to give a quick update. She graduated with a degree in Recreational Therapy but did not find a good job fit. She is living in Grand Rapids and works for Amazon where she receives great pay and benefits. She still stays in touch with Chelsea Jacobs. She looks wonderful! Condolences, Breanna, on your loss.
Email update from Tyler Janish (am session) on October 18, 2020. Tyler and wife Sarah are now living in Marquette. Tyler is a third year med student at MSU and has started his clinical rotations at the Marquette campus. He begins an 8 week surgery rotation today. Tyler is considering family practice, orthopedic surgery or physiatry (PM&R - a great fit for his interest in PT) for residency.
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Update on Brett Adcock (am session) from Bay City Times on July 7, 2019 (excerpt) ...
Brett is playing for the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros. According to the article, Brett had a rough first half of the season but has returned from a shoulder injury, and "he flashed his familiar form in his debut outing of the second half on the Fourth of July" during a 22-5 victory over the Midland (Texas) Rockhounds. Brett is in his fourth professional season after playing for the University of Michigan for three seasons.
Brett is playing for the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros. According to the article, Brett had a rough first half of the season but has returned from a shoulder injury, and "he flashed his familiar form in his debut outing of the second half on the Fourth of July" during a 22-5 victory over the Midland (Texas) Rockhounds. Brett is in his fourth professional season after playing for the University of Michigan for three seasons.
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Mrs. Birchler attended the wedding of Tyler Janish (am session) and Sarah Hartley on June 1, 2019. Sarah said that she almost attended the PT/OT program but couldn't decide so the seat went to her classmates from Birch Run - Tiarra Sedlar and Kayla Rychlicki. Tyler and Sarah met at Oakland University where Sarah will finish her DPT degree in December; Tyler just finished his first year of med school at the Grand Rapids campus of MSU. Mrs. Birchler also saw Garrett Galbraith (am session) who just completed an exercise science degree at SVSU and is applying to the PTA program at Delta College.
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Tyler Janish (am session) attended the 2018 Alumni Networking Event. Tyler has been busy working this year on the family farm and a new woodworking business. He has been accepted and plans to attend MSU's med school for the MD program at the Grand Rapids campus.
Family photos from Stormi Ludy (am session). Chase on the left will be 4 in August 2018. Cole on the right will be 1 in October.
Email update from Tyler Janish (am session) on April 18, 2018: "I'm currently deciding between MSU DO, MSU MD, and Oakland for my med school education. I have to decide by the end of this month, but am first waiting to hear back about some scholarships. It’s looking like it will end up being MSU MD, but that may change."
Email update from Stormi Ludy (am session) on April 18, 2018. Stormi is now the proud mother of two sons. I asked her to send a photo. Her first son, Chase, is adorable (see photo below).
Kirby Courier (am session) was working at PetSmart when Mrs. Birchler stopped in on April 13, 2018. Kirby lived in Florida for a while but he is finishing up his first year in the PTA program at Delta College.
Matt Fegan (pm session) stopped by to visit the classroom on February 15, 2018. Matt brandished an incredible scar on his left upper arm where he had fractured his humerus in a dirt bike accident in May of 2016. He required multiple plates and screws to stabilize the fracture. He said he had incredible physical therapy and demonstrated full ROM. He occasionally sees Tyler Kolevar who also rides dirt bikes, but Matt is ready to trade in his dirt bike for a street bike. (Mrs. Birchler shook her head and wondered if that would be any safer.) Matt said he has recently lost touch with classmate Morgan Darby, but the last he heard from her she was living in Europe.
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Congratulations to Breanna Jacobs (am session) who graduated from CMU in December 2017!
December 2017 email update from Tyler Janish (am session). Tyler has been accepted to Michigan State University's Med School. Tyler said that MSU is his first choice. Congrats again, Tyler!
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December 2017 email update from Chelsea Jacobs (am session). Chelsea graduated with her Associate's degree in Applied Science from MidMichigan college and is practicing as a PTA at Concept Rehab in Mt. Pleasant.
December 2017 update from Breanna Jacobs (am session). Breanna graduates this month from CMU with a degree in recreational therapy. She is going to take a little time off before joining the work force, but anticipates a job opening at the Battle Creek VA where she completed her internship
October 5, 2017 email from Tyler Janish (am session). Tyler scored in the 91st percentile on his MCAT and is in the process of applying to med schools. Congrats, Tyler!
June 2017 email update from Tyler Janish (am session): Tyler just graduated with his degree in Health Science from Oakland University. While he had a concentration in pre-physical therapy, he has also expressed an interest in attending med school. He recently made the decision to withdraw from the Oakland University DPT program and will take the MCAT on September 6, 2017. He hopes to be a primary care physician and would like to work in an under-served area such as his hometown.
Congratulations to Larry Wood (pm session) who earned the Amy J. Brennan Memorial scholarship and the Green Hut Charities "Leo Malecki" scholarship through the Bay Area Community Foundation in Spring 2017.
Email update from Cameron Ciesielski (am session) on March 31, 2017. Cameron is applying to the AT program at SVSU. He is currently taking classes at SVSU. He also works as a patient transporter at McLaren Bay Region.
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Stormi Ludy (am session) visited the classroom with her son Chase on February 20, 2016. Stormi is taking some classes at Delta and working as a CNA for a new home care agency in Saginaw.
Nicole Anton (am session) stopped by to visit during the Career Center Open House on February 9, 2017; she was accompanying her younger brother on a tour. Nicole is working for the Department of Human Services, making home visits. She keeps up with several members of the class.
Email update from Breanna Jacobs (am session): Breanna had to take some time off from school after having surgery to repair damage done by a fracture of her coccyx. (Ouch!) She is wrapping things up at SVSU this semester and then will complete an internship next fall. Breanna is earning a degree in recreation, parks and leisure with a concentration in recreational therapy.
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Email update from Reggie Arnold (pm session) on December 15, 2016: "Last Saturday I graduated from Middle Tennessee State University, earning a Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science like we planned Mrs. Birchler. I want to thank you and everyone at Bay Arenac for encouraging me to pursue college because if it was not for you all, I probably would not be here. Thank you for caring and tolerating me, even on the days I was a total GOOF BALL By the way ***I also graduated Cum Laude :) Hope all is well, I've interned over 500 hours with the strength and conditioning coaches at my university. My goal is to open my own facility in 3-5 years. Hope to hear from you soon doc! Thank you so much again! You did so much for me, you have no idea.
All the best, Reg."
Mrs. Birchler is absolutely bursting with pride at Reggie's accomplishments - this is the priceless joy of being a teacher!
All the best, Reg."
Mrs. Birchler is absolutely bursting with pride at Reggie's accomplishments - this is the priceless joy of being a teacher!
Email update from Tyler Janish (am session) on December 8, 2016: " I have just been accepted into the GVSU DPT program - I wanted you to be one of the first to find out :) I am still waiting to hear back from Oakland. While I am definitely excited to hear of my acceptance, I am still considering the medical field, as I have recently learned more about physician assistants (PAs) and like the idea of doing what they do. I will have a tough decision ahead of me, but I believe I am deciding between two good careers, so I’m not complaining."
Brett Adcock (am session) visited the classroom on November 15, 2016. Brett introduced his girlfriend Kylie (who is an actress and has a guest role on Chicago P.D. tomorrow). Brett is recovering from knee surgery and is currently in conditioning season before he resumes play in March for the Houston Astros farm team (may play against the Great Lakes Loons and Mrs. Birchler will be in the stands ... or on the lawn waiting to catch a foul ball :-). Brett is moving to Novi and has a miniature dachshund puppy.
Josh Rivard (pm session) has moved to Essexville and is working for Outdoor Adventures. Mrs. Birchler and Josh crossed paths at the Essexville Kroger in October 2016.
Kara Kaufmann (pm session) is validating for the PTA program at Delta College as per her email of October 7, 2016.
Brett Adcock (am session) attempted to visit the Career Center on June 9, 2016, but all the staff were in a two hour, end-of year meeting. He called on June 13 and Mrs. Birchler was able to congratulate him on his 4th round draft pick by the Houston Astros. Brett promised to send an alert if his farm team plays the Loons. Brett also delivered on his promise of an autographed UM baseball and sent along a photo from his last season as a Wolverine.
Chelsea Jeske (am session) was pictured with her Mid-Michigan Community College PTA cohort in the summer 2016 edition of the MPTA newsletter "Shorelines".
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Jordan Buda (am session) is finishing spring semester of her first year in the MSOT program at SVSU. Jordan taught Mrs. Birchler's current students about OT assessments on June 6, 2016 for her "Education Preparation in OT" class project.
Jordan and her classmate Kate taught students how to perform the 9 hole peg test, the Minnesota Dexterity test and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment.
Jordan and her classmate Kate taught students how to perform the 9 hole peg test, the Minnesota Dexterity test and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment.
April 21, 2016 email update from Chelsea Jeske (am session): "So I am currently doing my first clinical rotation for mid-michigan community college at covenant health systems in Saginaw, and I saw some of your students there!! Just made me think of you and how much you have helped me get to where I am today and I want to thank you for everything you have done. You have made such a big impact on my life."
April 10, 2016 email update from Tyler Janish (am session): "Everything has been going pretty well. I am currently taking exercise physiology with a lab, genetics, research methods, and 2 credits of independent research with a professor, along with working once or twice a week as a PT tech. Classes are still going good, and I am actually on pace to graduate a semester early next year if I choose to do so, which is pretty exciting! I will be applying to PT school this summer so there is light at the end of the tunnel for my undergrad career."
Here are updates in response to the March 2016 mailing of the Gifted Hands essay and Bucket List to the Class of 2012 ...
Maranda Charbonneau (am session) writes: "Wow! Has it been four years already?! I must be getting old 😉 I ecstatic to hear from you and it was quite entertaining to read what I wrote years ago. Unfortunately, I am not in college and I did not go at all after high school. I do work full time and I am also a full time mommy! I have a beautiful 8 month old daughter named Maleah Marie Parker. She is my world, my strength , my motivation and the reason I am still here today. I have never had so much love for a little human in my entire life. She keeps me very busy!! I also work full time at Riversbend Rehabilitation. I have been there for 2 years and I absolutely love it!! My residents are awesome and I love being able to help someone in need. I look forward to going to work everyday. I appreciate that you took the time to write all of us. I would love to hear back from you!!"
Tiarra Sedlar (am session) writes: "I recently got accepted into SVSUs MSOT program yay!! Wow, i have done alot in four years. I did two years at delta right out of high school then transfered to SVSU and now am starting grad school in the spring. I am super excited i can see the end is near. I miss pt/ot/sports med class all the time and everyone in it! I do still keep in touch with a couple people but i miss everyone else! I currently work at the iron gate emporium in birch run. If you havent been there you should come check it out, its a vintage/antique marketplace & is family owned! I did work as a CNA for about 2 years at a nursing home (which was a great experience), but nursing homes are not my thing! I just read over my gifted hands essay and it made me cry! I switched from wanting to be an COTA to now an OT and i am so happy with that change! Uhm, what else.. My current goal is to be an occupational therapist in a school setting but i also like TBI clinics."
Stormi Ludi (am session) writes: "I completely forgot all about the gifted hands essay we wrote four years ago! I was fun reading that and my bucket list. My career goals have changed a little but since then though. I'm currently working at Bay County Medical Care Facility in the Restorative Dept. We work hand and hand with the Physical Therapy Dept. and we do range of motion and ambulate people daily. I'm finally going back to school this spring for the physical therapy asst. program at delta and after that I plan to get my teaching licenses to also work as an elementary school teacher. My son Chase has inspired me to do that. He is already going to be 2 this August! I can't believe it! I will most definitely make an appearance at the Alumni Networking Event at Carroll Park!"
Maranda Charbonneau (am session) writes: "Wow! Has it been four years already?! I must be getting old 😉 I ecstatic to hear from you and it was quite entertaining to read what I wrote years ago. Unfortunately, I am not in college and I did not go at all after high school. I do work full time and I am also a full time mommy! I have a beautiful 8 month old daughter named Maleah Marie Parker. She is my world, my strength , my motivation and the reason I am still here today. I have never had so much love for a little human in my entire life. She keeps me very busy!! I also work full time at Riversbend Rehabilitation. I have been there for 2 years and I absolutely love it!! My residents are awesome and I love being able to help someone in need. I look forward to going to work everyday. I appreciate that you took the time to write all of us. I would love to hear back from you!!"
Tiarra Sedlar (am session) writes: "I recently got accepted into SVSUs MSOT program yay!! Wow, i have done alot in four years. I did two years at delta right out of high school then transfered to SVSU and now am starting grad school in the spring. I am super excited i can see the end is near. I miss pt/ot/sports med class all the time and everyone in it! I do still keep in touch with a couple people but i miss everyone else! I currently work at the iron gate emporium in birch run. If you havent been there you should come check it out, its a vintage/antique marketplace & is family owned! I did work as a CNA for about 2 years at a nursing home (which was a great experience), but nursing homes are not my thing! I just read over my gifted hands essay and it made me cry! I switched from wanting to be an COTA to now an OT and i am so happy with that change! Uhm, what else.. My current goal is to be an occupational therapist in a school setting but i also like TBI clinics."
Stormi Ludi (am session) writes: "I completely forgot all about the gifted hands essay we wrote four years ago! I was fun reading that and my bucket list. My career goals have changed a little but since then though. I'm currently working at Bay County Medical Care Facility in the Restorative Dept. We work hand and hand with the Physical Therapy Dept. and we do range of motion and ambulate people daily. I'm finally going back to school this spring for the physical therapy asst. program at delta and after that I plan to get my teaching licenses to also work as an elementary school teacher. My son Chase has inspired me to do that. He is already going to be 2 this August! I can't believe it! I will most definitely make an appearance at the Alumni Networking Event at Carroll Park!"
Chelsea Jeske (am session) was in a photo with her Mid-Michigan Community College PTA classmates that was recently published in the spring edition of Michigan Shoreslines, the Michigan Physical Therapy Association newsletter. Chelsea's PTA class went to Walmart in wheelchairs for sensitivity training.
November 2015 updates:
Tyler Janish (am session) was just notified that his Career Center articulation in Medical Terminology will transfer to Oakland University.
Katie Card (am session) writes "I am still living in Saginaw and I rent a house with a really close friend. I work two jobs at roughly 35-45 hours a week; I'm pretty busy. I recently leased a 2015 Malibu and it's where all my money goes besides other life bills. I adopted a cat this past February and his name is Nimbus (like the broom stick off of Harry Potter). I am in my third year at SVSU continuing to work towards a bachelor's degree in exercise science with a focus on cardiac rehab and with hopes to be completed by 2018."
Tyler Janish (am session) was just notified that his Career Center articulation in Medical Terminology will transfer to Oakland University.
Katie Card (am session) writes "I am still living in Saginaw and I rent a house with a really close friend. I work two jobs at roughly 35-45 hours a week; I'm pretty busy. I recently leased a 2015 Malibu and it's where all my money goes besides other life bills. I adopted a cat this past February and his name is Nimbus (like the broom stick off of Harry Potter). I am in my third year at SVSU continuing to work towards a bachelor's degree in exercise science with a focus on cardiac rehab and with hopes to be completed by 2018."
September 25, 2015 email update from Tyler Janish (am session): "I have landed a Physical Therapy Tech position at Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Auburn Hills. I decided not to play baseball this year, which was a huge decision for me, and I have since focused my efforts on becoming the best future PT I can be." Congratulations, Tyler!
Chelsea Gwizdala (pm session) shared organizational duties with a fellow Central HS classmate in launching the Alex Burke Memorial Bay County Tennis Tournament held August 21-22, 2015 at Bay City's Carroll Park.
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Caitlin Clark (pm session) attended the Alumni Networking event at Carroll Park on May 26, 2015. Caitlin is currently working full time at the Car Quest warehouse but expects to attend Delta in the fall. Caitlin is still interested in military service and is brushing up her academic skills prior to enlistment. Caitlin is a shadow of her former self after losing 66 pounds.
May 14, 2015 email update from Jordan Buda (am session): "I got accepted into the OT program at SVSU and am officially a grad student!" Jordan has classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays so she will not be able to attend the alumni event.
May 13, 2015 email update from Chelsea Jeske (am session): "I have actually just moved to Maine for the summer! It's pretty exciting, I'm really enjoying it so far. I am now anxiously awaiting my email or letter from MidMichigan community college to see if I made it into their PTA program in the fall."
May 7, 2015 e-mail update from Chris Dowd (am session): Chris has finished his basic training as an infantryman in the U.S. Army and is stationed at Fort Stewart in Georgia. Chris will be home for a visit but will not be able to extend his stay to attend the Alumni Networking event.
April 29, 2015 email update from Morgan Darby (pm session): "I'm currently taking a CNA class and there is so much stuff that is talked about that I already am familiar with thanks to you!"
March 26, 2015 email update from Tyler Janish (am session): Tyler took two lab classes last semester (chemistry and anatomy), but he doesn't want me to say he did a great job :-) He was also able to job shadow a PT last semester. Tyler returns to active duty on Oakland's baseball team this weekend after being sidelined with an AC joint sprain from an outfield collision a month ago. Tyler's team is in a slump so Mrs. Birchler suggested that his return to the field might turn the team around.
Taylor Tomczak (pm session) stopped by the classroom for a visit while on her way to the Adult Ed CNA class at the Career Center. Taylor is working on a degree in Exercise Science at SVSU and then plans to attend UM-Flint for her DPT. Taylor is earning her CNA in order to get a job to help pay for college expenses.
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Cameron Ciesielski (am session) and Matt Fegan (pm) were in the study area outside the Delta College PTA program on January 14, 2015 when Mrs. Birchler was visiting with her students. They are both taking classes at Delta College. Cameron is still thinking about athletic training but also expressed an interest in becoming a physician's assistant. Matt has been working, including welding, but has decided to apply to the PTA program at Delta. He is just beginning his pre-requisite classes.
Kayla Rychlicki (am session) was planning to assist as event manager for Sports Medicine at HOSA competition on January 9th until she got stuck in the snow that morning. Kayla's update is that she is finishing a program at the Ross Medical Education Center for medical assisting. Kayla has taken the last year off to care for her father as he needed intensive physical and occupational therapy after being successfully treated for a brain tumor.
January 8, 2015 update from Kara Kaufmann (pm session) via email:
"I actually decided to change my major to Exercise Science with a minor in Athletic Coaching. I feel like Strength and Conditioning coaching is the career I will be happiest with! SHOCKER I KNOW!"
"I actually decided to change my major to Exercise Science with a minor in Athletic Coaching. I feel like Strength and Conditioning coaching is the career I will be happiest with! SHOCKER I KNOW!"
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Four members of the morning session visited in October 2014. Far left is Darian Willette from the morning session of 2012/2013. She just happened to stop by just before the others arrived. Left to right: Katie Card, at SVSU; Chris Dowd, entering the army next month; Kaylynn Hoffman, who is working on a special ed degree at SVSU; Stormi Ludy with 2 month old Chase who is returning to work in the Activities department at the Bay County Medical Care Facility.
Breana Bushnell (pm session) was at the Temple Theater Kenny Loggins concert that Mrs. Birchler also attended on July 31. Breana is at Delta College and just got a job at Dow Chemical.
Stormi Ludy (am session) was working in the Activities department at the Bay County Medical Care Facility this summer. She and Mrs. Birchler crossed paths when Mrs. Birchler was covering for a physical therapist who was on vacation the week of July 28th. Stormi is expecting a baby boy on August 9th.
Stormi Ludy (am session) was working in the Activities department at the Bay County Medical Care Facility this summer. She and Mrs. Birchler crossed paths when Mrs. Birchler was covering for a physical therapist who was on vacation the week of July 28th. Stormi is expecting a baby boy on August 9th.
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Updates from the am students who attended the May 27, 2014 Alumni/Alumnae Networking Event ...
Brett Adcock is at the University of Michigan working on a degree in Movement Science and playing baseball. Cameron Ciesielski is transferring from Delta to Grand Valley State University to get his degree in athletic training. Kirby Courier is at Delta College and plans to apply to the PTA program. Chris Dowd is still undecided about a career, but he is planning to join the Air Force. Garrett Galbraith is transferring from Delta to SVSU or CMU and is still planning on a degree in physical therapy. Breanna Jacobs is at CMU for her undergraduate degree - still planning on OT. Tyler Janish is at Oakland University in the pre-PT program and playing baseball. Chelsea Jeske is applying for the Fall 2015 PTA program at Mid-Michigan Community College.
Brett Adcock is at the University of Michigan working on a degree in Movement Science and playing baseball. Cameron Ciesielski is transferring from Delta to Grand Valley State University to get his degree in athletic training. Kirby Courier is at Delta College and plans to apply to the PTA program. Chris Dowd is still undecided about a career, but he is planning to join the Air Force. Garrett Galbraith is transferring from Delta to SVSU or CMU and is still planning on a degree in physical therapy. Breanna Jacobs is at CMU for her undergraduate degree - still planning on OT. Tyler Janish is at Oakland University in the pre-PT program and playing baseball. Chelsea Jeske is applying for the Fall 2015 PTA program at Mid-Michigan Community College.
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Two pm students attended the 2014 Networking Event. Jackie Downs is at SVSU, planning for the OT program. Chelsea Gwizdala is at CMU and will be travelling to Uganda and Kenya this summer.
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Brett Adcock (am session) had a one-day break from baseball at the University of Michigan and visited on May 14, 2014. He is shown in this photo with Quintin, the younger brother of Kirby Courier (am session). Brett has had a good season so far; he recently faced OSU and pitched particularly well. (Sorry for not remembering the stats, Brett!) He is hoping to finish his exercise science program in three years with the expectation that he will be recruited by the pros. He said he has learned the importance of good study habits and time management for college classes. He remembered the OT assessments lab we happened to be doing when he stopped by and says that he has also been using the progressive muscle relaxation techniques he learned in this program.
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Breanna Jacobs and Chelsea Jeske (am session) stopped by with some beautiful flowers (see background) on May 13, 2014. Breanna is "broken" again and wearing a short leg cast. She says it was a challenge to get around on CMU's campus and ended up using an Amigo - especially after she dislocated her shoulder trying to walk on crutches! She is still planning to pursue a degree in OT, possibly at Western Michigan University after she gets her bachelor's degree from CMU. Chelsea has completed all her pre-reqs at Mid-Michigan Community College but the next cohort of PTA students doesn't begin until Fall of 2015. She is disappointed to have to wait for a year. In the meantime she is still working as a rehab aide at an out-patient clinic in Mount Pleaseant and also works as a lifeguard and swim instructor at the Midland Community Center.
Sometimes it's hilarious how people reconnect. Mrs. Birchler was stuck in traffic and unintentionally blocked a business drive to a vehicle that was trying to turn left. Turns out the person in that vehicle was none other than Maranda Charbonneau (am). Maranda had just sent a hello through Mrs. L from Forensics the previous week. We had a quick conversation from our vehicles while we waited for traffic to start moving. Maranda will be starting a job at Riversbend, a residence for people with traumatic brain injury.
March 2014 email news from Chelsea Gwizdala (pm) is that she will be going to Uganda again this summer and also expects to go to Kenya. Kara Kaufmann (pm) also e-mailed and is in the process of applying to the AT program at SVSU.
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Khrystyn Coyer (pm) visited on March 24, 2014. Khrystyn is still working at Men's Wearhouse for now, but the big news is that she is engaged. She is marrying Joshua Elledge on June 14th and they will be settling in Mayville.
In the meantime she and her aunt are moving to a new apartment next week. E-mail update: two days later Khrystyn fell down a flight of steps and fractured her ankle. She was her usual upbeat self about dealing with adversity.
In the meantime she and her aunt are moving to a new apartment next week. E-mail update: two days later Khrystyn fell down a flight of steps and fractured her ankle. She was her usual upbeat self about dealing with adversity.
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Jordan Buda (am) visited on March 10, 2014. Jordan was picking up a letter of recommendation for study abroad in Australia this summer. Jordan is still on track to apply to the MSOT program at SVSU next winter. She had an "Intro to OT" class last semester, and she said she was one of the few students who was interested in geriatrics rather than pediatrics.
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Caitlin Clark (pm) visited the classroom after the HOSA regional competition in January 2014. Caitlin expects to go to OCC for criminal justice. Caitlin says that she has lost 50# since she left the program.
Katie Card, Chris Dowd, Breanna Jacobs, and Chelsea Jeske (all am students) and Caitlin Clark (pm) were volunteers for HOSA regional competition at SVSU on Friday, January 10, 2014. Katie was section leader for Sports Medicine, Chris judged gait training with a walker for the PT event, and Breanna and Chelsea were volunteer "patients" for the PT event. Caitlin was a volunteer "patient" for nursing and also delivered lunches to judges. Thank you to all!!!
Quick updates: Katie is going to school at SVSU, Chris is talking with a recruiter for possible enlistment in the armed services, Breanna is at CMU for her bachelor's degree and plans to go to Western for her master's in OT, and Chelsea is at Mid-Michigan Community College for the PTA program. Mrs. Birchler missed Caitlin so, sadly, there is no update on what Caitlin is doing.
Quick updates: Katie is going to school at SVSU, Chris is talking with a recruiter for possible enlistment in the armed services, Breanna is at CMU for her bachelor's degree and plans to go to Western for her master's in OT, and Chelsea is at Mid-Michigan Community College for the PTA program. Mrs. Birchler missed Caitlin so, sadly, there is no update on what Caitlin is doing.
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Cassidy Vieau and Kara Kaufmann (pm) visited the classroom at the end of November 2013. Cassidy had been in a car accident a few days earlier and was sporting a black eye and other injuries; she is trying to decide whether to be red-shirted for the basketball season at Delta. Cassidy has switched to Special Education. Kara is at Delta and still interested in an athletic training degree. Kara has been injury free so far, but dropped out of all sports this year. She reminded me that she had the last black eye from a softball injury - see the class photo below.
November 2013 e-mail update from Tyler Janish (am).
Tyler reports that he is finishing his first semester at Oakland University in Rochester. Classes and sports are keeping him very busy. He is in a Pre-PT program, majoring in health science and minoring in exercise science. He is currently taking a nutrition/weight loss class and says that he has a head start because he already covered some of the material when he was in this program. He is playing baseball for Oakland and will have an opportunity to play against Brett Adcock when Oakland meets U-M next spring.
Tyler reports that he is finishing his first semester at Oakland University in Rochester. Classes and sports are keeping him very busy. He is in a Pre-PT program, majoring in health science and minoring in exercise science. He is currently taking a nutrition/weight loss class and says that he has a head start because he already covered some of the material when he was in this program. He is playing baseball for Oakland and will have an opportunity to play against Brett Adcock when Oakland meets U-M next spring.
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Breanna Jacobs (am) has been a frequent visitor to the classroom in Fall 2013. Breanna recently passed her CNA exam. Congratulations, Breanna! She's pictured here with a friend, Justyne, who is a current student in the afternoon program 2013/2014.
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Mrs. Birchler enjoyed a September 2013 visit from pm students, Matt Fegan and Morgan Darby. Matt is at SVSU, thinks his psychology instructor is awesome, and finally quit his job at BK. Morgan is at Northwestern Michigan University in Traverse City. She enjoys beach time when the weather is warm.
July 2013 update from Josh Rivard (pm): Josh is working at Menard's and attends Delta. He is working on his personal trainer certificate and is still interested in physical therapy.
May 2013 Networking picnic update: Jordan Buda (am) is attending SVSU and planning on a career in OT. Chelsea Jeske (am) is at MidMichigan Community College; she got a job as a rehab technician as a result of a mentorship and is getting lots of experience. Chris Dowd (am) attends CMU and plans on a PT career. Chelsea Gwizdala (pm) is at Delta planning to go into PT or education; she has a two week trip to Uganda planned for this summer. Cassidy Vieau (pm) is at Delta on the women's basketball team; she's considering OT. Graduating Class of 2013 members include Kaylynn Hoffman (am) starting at SVSU for OT, Cameron Ciesielski (am) starting at Delta next fall and eventually transferring to GVSU for AT undergrad/PT grad school, Garrett Galbraith (am) starting at Delta and planning for PT, Kara Kaufmann (pm) starting at SVSU for athletic training, Morgan Darby (pm) starting at Northwestern Michigan College with plans for an associate's degree in psychology before transferring to GVSU, Matt Fegan (pm) planning to start at SVSU and transfer to CMU for PT, and lastly, Adam Galindo (pm) will be starting at Delta and is interested in sports medicine.
Congratulations to am students, Nicole Anton and Taylor Royal, who received Bay Commitment Scholarships on May 21, 2013!
Larry Wood (PM session) is at Northwood University so he can play ball according to his mom who was visiting the Career Center in March 2013. Larry is currently in finance, but retained his A&P knowledge from last year to identify the bones that his mom recently fractured in her left UE.
Breana Bushnell (PM session) visited in March 2013. She is experiencing physical therapy from the patient perspective.
Breana Bushnell (PM session) visited in March 2013. She is experiencing physical therapy from the patient perspective.
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Garrett Rezler (PM session) is indeed still at the Career Center in the Small Electronics class. Garrett joined in the "HOSA: Build a Better You" activities at break in March 2013. He challenged another classmate to tossing a ball while balancing on a board. Garrett wisely chose the rocker board rather than the wobble board based on his experience in PT, OT & Sports Med last year.
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Morgan Darby (PM session) hung around the Career Center until Mrs. Birchler and students returned from the field trip to the Kinesiology department at SVSU in March 2013. Morgan was checking out the new piece of cardio equipment - a step trainer. She graduates from Standish-Sterling this spring.
HOSA Regional winners going to State competition
Congratulations to Jackie Downs (PM, currently in Nursing) - 1st in Physical Therapy, Katie Card and Taylor Royal (AM, currently in Health Tech) - 3rd in Community Awareness, Breanna Jacobs (AM, currently in nursing) - 3rd in Home Health Aide, and Kylie Blenkhorn (PM, currently in Forensic Science) - 3rd place in Parliamentary Procedure.
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Mrs. Birchler was amazed to have visitors on the last day of school before Christmas break 2012 because it probably should have been a snow day. AM students Garrett Galbraith, Tomas Smith, and Tyler Janish (photo right) arrived first, followed by Brett Adcock and Cameron Cielsielski, and finally Chris Dowd. Tomas is at Alma College;he stopped playing football but is already breaking records in track events. Garrett and Tyler are in their senior year at Whittemore Prescott and taking classes from Alpena Community College. Brett and Cameron are in their senior year at Western HS. Chris just finished his first semester at CMU. Mrs. Birchler was thrilled to have all four HOSA Bowl 2nd place state winners to talk to her two current teams. Brett also volunteered his advice (based on experience) that students should be sure to read the Code Blue assignments when they are assigned after break. Tyler and Cameron spoke about their HOSA state conference experiences. All agreed that state conference was the best weekend of their lives! And they happily participated in Rehab Family Feud and a little of the leftovers from "Cooking with Disabilities" while visiting.
Mrs. Birchler enjoyed a visit in December 2012 from Chelsea Jeske (am). Chelsea is at Mid-Michigan Community College and planning to enroll in the PTA program.
Kayla Rychlicki (AM), Chris Dowd (AM), and Chelsea Gwizdala (PM) were members of the HOSA alumni panel on October 22, 2012. They spoke in the Lecture Hall to all the Health Science students and then came to the classroom to give HOSA competitive event advice to Mrs. Birchler's students.
Reggie Arthur (PM) has been corresponding by email in Fall 2012. He is at Nashville State Community College and has decided on Exercise Science for his degree.
Fall 2012 visitors have included Matt Fegan (PM), Kara Kauffman (PM) and Katie Demo (AM) during Parent Teacher Conferences, and Brett Adcock (AM). All four will graduate in 2013.
Fall 2012: Mrs. Birchler gets frequent classroom visits from second year students. Katie Card (AM) and Taylor Royal (AM) are in the Health Technology program. Breanna Jacobs (AM) and Jackie Downs (PM) are in Mrs. Hoffman's nursing program. Chelsea Ososki (PM) and Adam Galindo (PM) are in Mrs. Gorski's nursing program. Nicole Anton (AM) switched from Early Childhood to Nursing. Kylie Blenkhorn (PM) is in Forensic Science. And Mrs. Birchler has also seen Garrett Rezler walking around the Career Center, but she is not sure which program he is in.
Summer 2012: Khrystyn Coyer (pm) e-mailed Mrs. Birchler with a link to a good video for the health maintenance unit. Khrystyn is still working at Men's Wearhouse.