I decided to combine my interests of parkour and physical therapy to create an event and fundraiser for physical therapy research. As a competitive parkour athlete, I have seen first hand how essential a physical therapy plan and treatment can help bring back an athlete to their sport. Through knowledge gained in my sports medicine classes this summer at the University of Miami, I see how important research is to the field of physical therapy. Research also supports the work of physical therapists who help vulnerable members of our community with chronic disease and survivorship from various injuries as well as both rare and common illnesses.  I have met with several experts that acknowledge new evidence on rehabilitation is essential to the quality of life of those they treat. If you join us at the event I'm hosting this Fall, you can learn from physical therapists, students, professors, athletic trainers, and staff personally since some will be present to share their knowledge on the matter. I am very grateful for that.

The COVID-19 crisis has created extreme challenges for all in the physical therapy community. Like many nonprofits, the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research (FPTR) has been affected by the current market volatility and economic disruptions. FPTR is acting to ensure the strength of the organization but without additional support, FPTR may face a budget shortfall. Physical therapy continues to be critical for patients facing the long road to recovery of COVID-19. FPTR researchers are already contributing to our understanding of the current pandemic through their recent publications. Please help us preserve the future of physical therapy.

Join us either at the event on September 25, 2022 at 2pm at Miami Freerunning & Parkour Academy (at 12770 SW 125th Ave, Miami, FL 33186) by donating $35 or making a contribution to the FPTR on this site. Either method would help me reach my fundraising goal. Thank you for taking the time to read this and hopefully help me make a difference in this field. 

Evan J. Hartigan