Connie Radford, OTR/L, Pediatric Rehabilitation, has transformed her department into a cartoon world as she works to help youngsters with motor skills, sensory processing and cognitive deficits.

Earlier this year, Radford (and her mother) donated over 100 weekend hours to paint cartoon characters in the Pediatric Rehabilitation rooms and hallways. “The kids love the characters,” said Radford. “They pretend to knock on house doors, eat snacks and make noises at the animals.” The murals also provide youngsters visual targets during their therapy. “Each room has a character,” said Radford. “Using the characters gives them a target to look for, find and wait for the next direction. Or, they may use the characters to sequence multiple directions.”

Radford’s co-workers appreciate her passion to help the young patients. “She loves what she does and wants the children and families to be excited about treatment,” said one co-worker. “Her positivity and generous personality are an incredible asset to our department.”

Radford earned a Master of Science degree in occupational therapy from the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. She is also an early intervention specialist through Provider Connections and the Illinois Department of Human Services. “One of my goals is to get a Master of Science degree in nutrition to coincide with my holistic approach to occupational therapy.”

In her free time, Radford enjoys sand volleyball, travel adventures and helping others learn about vibrant wellness with essential oils. Radford and her husband, Brandon, live in Jacksonville.

The Colleague of the Month at Passavant receives eight hours off with pay, an Employee of the Month plaque, an Employee of the Month pin, a close parking space for one month in the physicians’ parking garage and a decorated cake.