Life & Work with Kathleen Pepper of Metamora

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathleen Pepper. 

Hi Kathleen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I graduated from Wayne State University’s Physical Therapy program in 1992 and have 30 years of experience and continuing education in outpatient physical therapy. Health and fitness is important to me and lead me to pursue my Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification (CSCS). I am a runner, a triathlete, and a Pilates instructor and I enjoy treating athletes from the weekend warrior to the collegiate athlete.

In 2016, I had the opportunity to once again let my personal life fuel my professional life. I am now a breast cancer survivor. Since my diagnosis, I became a Certified Lymphedema therapist (CLT-UE) and have taken advanced courses in breast cancer rehabilitation. I am committed to treating the breast cancer patient in their entirety, from diagnosis through survivorship. This journey has led me to opening my own in clinic in 2018 in partnership with Heidi Irwin. This has allowed me to pursue my vision and passion in creating a clinic that not only focuses on physical therapy but on the health and wellness of our community.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No! It has not been a smooth road, but I believe the struggles are what creates your vision to what you really want to do and pursue in life. When opening the clinic, we felt great about what we could offer to the community, but we had a lot to learn about the business aspect of owning your own clinic (thank goodness we had 2 of us to navigate this). Just when we started growing and expanded our clinic in 2020, Covid-19 hit. We had to close the clinic for some time and then had a decrease in patient volume. It was scary not knowing what the future would hold. We had to learn new ways to serve our community during this time, but we are grateful to have persevered. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am physical therapist and Co-Owner of Metamora Physical Therapy. I specialize in Women’s Health including Breast Cancer Rehabilitation, Lymphedema, and Pelvic Health. At our clinic, we deliver one on one individualized care to best serve our clients. I am also a Pilates Instructor and offer group and private sessions at our clinic. I find Pilates to be a great adjunct to physical therapy. 

Any big plans?
As I continue to grow both professionally and personally in the realm of Women’s Health, I am excited to share that I have begun my education to become a certified Women’s Health Coach. So, whether it is cancer-related concerns, menopause, healthy aging, or other health concerns, as a women’s health coach I will unlock women’s potential to live a healthy vibrant, and purposeful life as defined by her. I am ecstatic to bring this service to all the women who want to achieve their optimal health! 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website : www.metamorapt.com
• Phone Number: 810-212-1277
• Facebook: Metamora Physical Therapy LLC