PT students explore disability through art

On the second floor of the EAD building at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, a collection of 50 pieces of art told powerful, deeply personal stories of resilience and humanity. Each piece, crafted by first-year physical therapy students, represented the journey of an individual living with a disability, reflecting an innovative assignment in their Culture and Psychosocial Issues in Physical Therapy course.

For students like Miranda Lutterbei and Lan To, the project transcended traditional classroom learning. It was an opportunity to connect deeply with their subjects, shedding clinical detachment and embracing emotional storytelling through artistic expression.

[Link]"I knew immediately who I wanted to focus on," Lutterbei said. "One of my good family friends, Rich, was diagnosed with ALS just over a year ago. It's been devastating to see the progression, but I wanted to create something meaningful - something that reflected who he is, not just his diagnosis."

Lutterbei, a Baylor University graduate, highlighted a common misconception about ALS: that it impairs cognitive function. "It doesn't. Rich's mind remains sharp, even as the disease affects him physically," Lutterbei explained.

Her project featured letters and statements from Rich's loved ones, each describing his personality, favorite memories and the impact he's had on their lives. The result was a heartfelt tribute, intended not just for the class but for Rich and his family.

"When Rich and his wife Janelle saw the project, we all cried," Lutterbei said. "The photos I included were from their wedding last April - a reminder of how quickly ALS progresses. But more than that, it was about celebrating him as a person."

Lan To's piece struck a different chord. To, a University of Houston graduate and former art student, turned her focus inward, creating a deeply personal tribute to her late father, who suffered three strokes throughout his life.

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"His strokes were unique," To said. "Physically, he could walk and coordinate himself, which confused his doctors. But emotionally, they changed him. He would get agitated easily, and society didn't always understand that."

Her painting depicted her father surrounded by dark tones and judgmental eyes, representing the way others perceived him. A hand pressed down on his head, symbolizing the pressure and emotional turmoil he often described.

"He used to hold his head and say the migraines were unbearable," To explained. "It was his way of expressing his frustration - with his own body, with us and with the world that didn't understand him." Despite the somber tones, the piece celebrated her father's warmth and humor. "I called him my grumpy sunshine," To said. "He was playful, loving and stronger than anyone realized."

Michael Furtado, PT, DPT, EdD, chair of the Department of Physical Therapy, underscored the importance of the project as part of the department's curriculum.

"The art project assigned in our Culture and Psychosocial course is an example of how we weave affective objectives and authentic assessment into our curriculum," Furtado said. "Art allows students to explore the subjective experience of disability beyond clinical terms, fostering emotional connection and empathy. If students can understand the lived experience of individuals with disabilities, they're more likely to communicate in meaningful ways in their clinical practice."

Pieces by first-year students Jessica Dalley, Kaitlyn Lynch and Holli Richards were awarded Best in Show.

The assignment encouraged students to step beyond their academic comfort zones and engage with the human experience. Whether through painting, sculpture or written word, each piece reflected not just a story of disability but also of perseverance, identity and dignity.

"This project reinforced why I want to go into physical therapy," Lutterbei said. "It's not just about treatment plans and exercises. It's about building relationships and truly seeing your patients for who they are."

To echoed that sentiment, noting how the project highlighted the PT program's emphasis on human connection. "It's easy to get caught up in the science and forget about the people. But this program prioritizes community and empathy. That's what makes it so special."

As students and visitors moved through the reception, the artwork sparked reflection and conversation, creating a moment of shared understanding and emotional depth. For many, it was a reminder of the responsibility physical therapists hold: to see beyond diagnoses and truly connect with their patients.

"It was an emotional, meaningful night," Lutterbei said. "It reminded all of us why we're here."