Celebrating Black History Month with Physical Therapist Chantal Manigat

Chantal Manigat was close to completing her undergraduate degree in marketing and business management when she witnessed firsthand the impact healthcare workers can have on our community.

At the time, her father was a stroke patient at Jackson North Medical Center. While she was visiting him, Manigat noticed how much his physical therapist helped him.

“My dad ended up having about five or six strokes, and I noticed how when he saw the therapist walk into his room, it brightened his day,” she said.

Manigat finished school and began working in marketing and event planning, but the work wasn’t as fulfilling as she hoped. Her mind went back to her father’s experience in the hospital, and she decided to go back to school to become a physical therapist.

Now, Manigat is a physical therapist at Jackson North, working with patients admitted to the hospital who have suffered a stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord condition, as well as surgical patients. She’s currently getting a certification to specialize in treating patients with pelvic floor issues, such as those with incontinence postpartum or due to having their prostate removed.

“Being able to educate patients to help them grow stronger, improve their balance, learn to stand, walk, and be independent again is incredibly rewarding.” Manigat said. “Sometimes the gains come quicker than others, but it’s never a sad day when a patient tells me ‘thank you for all you’ve done.’ ”

Working at Jackson North, she’s proud to be a part of a diverse team of medical professionals caring for a diverse community.

“In the rehab department, the cultural and racial representation has improved greatly compared to previous years. The staff here are more open to learning about our differences and want to make a change,” Manigat said. “They are aware of the disparities in health care and are open to being educated, and actually want to do something about it.”

Despite the work that still needs to be done, Manigat’s hopeful for her daughter and future generations.

“Black history is American history. It’s a time for reflection, specifically on what Black Americans have done for us, often times without recognition or acknowledgement,” she said. “Being able to educate my daughter on the harsh realities that many had to endure but were able overcome despite the odds is an opportunity to teach her about hope and perseverance for the future. I take that responsibility very seriously.”