Helping Kids Heal Through Pediatric Physical Therapy
For Mary-Kathryn Whitworth Kallenbach, a 2017 graduate, every day is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children. As a pediatric physical therapist at the University of Florida’s Shands Hospital, Kallenbach helps young patients regain strength, endurance, and independence after injuries or surgeries.
“I love making movement fun for kids by turning exercise into playtime,” Kallenbach said. “Seeing their progress and joy during recovery is incredibly rewarding.”
Kallenbach’s passion for physical therapy stems from her desire to support and uplift children during challenging times. Her role combines clinical expertise with compassion, ensuring that each child feels cared for and encouraged.
Reflecting on her time at Asbury, Kallenbach credits her education with teaching her to demonstrate God’s love, even in the toughest trials. A standout mentor, Dr. Elise Kearns, significantly impacted her academic and professional journey, providing guidance that extended beyond the classroom into grad school at the University of Kentucky and her career today.
“I learned that faith can be demonstrated in any job,” Kallenbach said. “And having a positive outlook and support from family and friends can make a huge difference in someone’s recovery.”
Her advice for current students and recent graduates is heartfelt:
“Enjoy the time when all of your closest friends are in one area and go deeper in those relationships. It’s a unique season of life that you’ll always cherish.”
Living on 20 acres in Gainesville, Florida, Kallenbach enjoys a slower pace of life with her husband, two dogs, two outdoor cats, and 11 chickens. Together, they love to travel and explore nature. Their most recent adventure took them to Switzerland, where they hiked through stunning landscapes alongside her parents.