10/01/2026
For Jerre, pediatric PT begins with looking at the individual child in combination with the family. As a practitioner, he considered: What does quality of life look like for this child? What are the family’s goals? And how can mobility help them achieve their collective goals?
“Mobility is our ability to move and to be independent in this world,” he says. “And mobility allows for bonding, play, feeding and even moving a wheelchair."
In pediatric therapy, mobility can mean something different for every child. For one child, progress might mean finding the right wheelchair to navigate their world more independently. For an infant, it might mean developing the strength and head control needed to participate in feeding therapy.
Whatever the end goal, Jerre believes that physical therapy lays the foundation for the many skills we want children to achieve.
That belief in looking at the whole child has been part of Therapy 2000 since Jerre founded the organization. From day one, Therapy 2000 provided physical, occupational and speech therapy, bringing disciplines together around a shared goal: helping children become as independent, successful and joyful as possible.
He also believes the value of movement extends throughout our lives. Physical activity contributes to fitness, wellness and quality of life, making movement an important part of building healthier lives from childhood forward.
After more than three decades in the profession, however, some of the experiences that stay with him most aren't only about physical milestones. They’re about families.
He has been especially touched by the parents and siblings he has met along the way, including siblings who take on a special role in supporting a brother or sister with a disability. He has even seen those childhood experiences inspire people to pursue careers helping other children and families.
"Watching the siblings and families is a reminder of how far the impact of pediatric therapy can reach," reflects Jerre.
