Orthotics and Prosthetics Models Play an Important Role with Students

The Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P) program on Drexel University’s Elkins Park Campus is dedicated to serving the needs of the community. Patients are contributing to the development of the future of Orthotics and Prosthetics. Two role models from the community, Elizabeth “Beth” Kase and David Marshall, are being highlighted here.

Kase has been living with four different levels of amputations for the past 10 years, brought on by complications from strep throat. She developed Quad Amputations, all extremities, from medication she was put on called Levophed, which increased her blood pressure. She and her family were told, “it was life or limb.” “It saved my life, saved my organs, and I lost my limb(s),” said Kase.

She has a love for volunteering, which led her to the O&P department at Drexel University, Elkins Park Campus. Early in her journey, she began volunteering and was soon asked to become a peer volunteer. She also gave her time at the Reading Rehab hospital, where she was a patient. When the opportunity arose to join the O&P program at Drexel, she viewed it as a natural extension of something she had already done, just a bit more involved. “I was eager to give it a shot, and I’m glad I did,” she said.

Kase said she has an incredible relationship with the Master of Science in Orthotics and Prosthetics students she works with. She’s impressed watching how far the students have come from their first encounter. “They’re just so personable and skilled,” she said. She has also been able to learn a lot from them. “From what I’ve learned from the students regarding fit, description, and terminology, I’m able to be a better client to them when I’m explaining issues that I’m having or something I’d like repaired,” she said.

Kase has many amazing memories from her work with the O&P students – from witnessing one student adopt an amputee dog to seeing others travel abroad, using 3D printing to make devices for individuals harmed in a civil war.

She said she would absolutely recommend the O&P program to others, calling it “top-notch.”

“Aside from learning more about yourself and how it can benefit you, it helps these students immeasurably. So, I think this is an amazing opportunity, and if somebody is asked, I think if they have the ability, they should become a part of it. I just look at it as a gift, I’m always grateful when I can be involved,” said Kase.

She added there are many different ways to make an impact – not only by supporting amputees, but also educating the broader community in general about challenges.

Another O&P dedicated patient model is David Marshall. Approximately 52 years ago, he was involved in a motorcycle accident. Faculty member Allison Bressler, CPO, LPO, MS, asked him to come be a model for the O&P program.

Marshall believes the O&P program is making a real difference, and is happy to be a part of its success. He not only enjoys being able to help the students, but believes they are accomplishing important work. He added he would definitely recommend the Drexel O&P program and the opportunity to serve as a patient model. He cited the students’ dedication and hard work with every patient, as well as the outstanding instruction provided by the faculty.