RVNA’s Crystal Madyda, PT, was not named idly. Brilliant and strong, clear and reflective, Crystal is a true gift to those who know her, those who work with her, and, of course, those patients she treats.
Meet Crystal Madyda.
Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I was born and raised in Danbury, CT. After attending college in MA, I found myself back in Danbury and that is where I now live with my husband and son.
What is your role at RVNA?
I am an in-home physical therapist.
How long have you been at RVNA?
I have been lucky to work for the RVNA for almost 5 years. December 2018 is my 5 year anniversary.
When did you decide you wanted to become a physical therapist?
I think when I look back, the first time I was really interested in becoming a physical therapist was when I was about 10 years old. My mother had undergone extensive back surgery and I occasionally would go with her to physical therapy sessions. I was amazed that with the therapist’s help she was able to go from barely being able to walk to being my active, involved mother again, playing soccer and throwing the ball with my brother and I like she used to. It was further engrained in me when I attended physical therapy for a sports injury when I was in high school. I loved how therapists could have a hands-on role in helping people get back to better health and wellness. Plus, they made therapy fun!
What is your favorite part of your job?
There are so many things I love about being a physical therapist. Mostly, I truly love getting to know my patients and helping them regain some sense of self and achieve more independence in their daily lives. Being in their homes makes our jobs much more intimate and hands-on and in many cases, more impactful.
I actually can’t imagine NOT being a PT. Since I love animals, maybe I could see myself being a veterinarian if I wasn’t a physical therapist.
What do you love to do when you’re not working?
When I’m not working, I love spending time with my friends and family. My son is such a little entertainer and makes me laugh every day. You know what they say….laughter is the best medicine!!!
What is your hidden talent?
I’d say one of my hidden talents is I am a really good cook and baker. I read cook books like novels!
What would you do if you won the lottery?
If I won the lottery, I’d make sure that I could take care of all my family’s financial needs, I’d donate… and I’d travel…travel…travel!
Do you have a favorite RVNA story?
One of my favorite RVNA therapy stories involves a patient and her faithful dog. I was helping my patient recover from a spinal fracture as a result of cancer. I was performing some manual therapy techniques on her spine and pelvis while she laid in bed. Her dog had never once jumped up on her bed since she got the hospital bed a couple of months earlier. Her little dog was sweet and very protective and always by my patient’s side.
This day, her dog jumped up on the bed, snuggled in close to me, and rested her head on my arm, all the while I continued to gently work on her owner. What a testament to love, trust and healing.