PA Hospital’s Occupational Therapy (OT) team has stepped up for wellbeing this September, thanks to the infectious energy and leadership of Senior OT Ian Meade.
As part of the 10,000 Steps Challenge, Ian has rallied more than 70 OT staff members to lace up and get moving, turning a simple wellness initiative into a department-wide highlight.
“I’ve been at PA for three years, after 15 years in Townsville where the 10,000 Steps Challenge was a hospital-wide tradition,” Ian shared.
“This year, I decided to bring the OT team together, and the response was overwhelming. We’ve got seven teams in our department, and the competition has been fantastic.”
With team names like Red Hot Chilli Steppers, Tumor-nators on the Move, and Spinalots, the challenge has sparked friendly rivalry, laughter, and plenty of movement.
Weekly leaderboards, shout-outs, and even Tim Tam prizes have kept motivation high. So far, 13 participants have smashed 300,000 steps, and nearly 70 percent are exceeding the daily goal.
“It’s not just about the steps. It’s about carving out time for yourself, promoting physical and mental wellbeing, and building connection,” explained Ian.
“We’re a big department, and this has brought people together, whether it’s taking the stairs instead of the lift, or going on team walks to Stones Corner.”
As the challenge wraps up, Ian is determined to keep the momentum going and turn movement into a lasting habit at the unit.
A huge congratulations to the OT team on this inspiring effort!