VIDA KIRKLAND

As a collegiate soccer player, Taunie’s academic plan was to pursue a degree in the Physical Therapy field. A military transfer to Puerto Rico derailed that plan for a time. While in Puerto Rico, she had the opportunity to set up a personal training program for military personnel and civilians. She observed the benefits of exercise and lifestyle changes, while supporting participants in optimizing their health. She loved educating clients and found it rewarding to be part of helping others remove obstacles preventing them from being at the top of their game. Looking back, she feels that detour was the thing that opened her eyes to the advantages a broader treatment style and now helps her be the inventive and empathetic patient advocate she is.

While in Puerto Rico, she volunteered with an amazing team who provided alternative treatment for disabled/special needs children and teens. This experience reignited Taunie’s desire to fulfill her initial career plan of working in physical therapy with a brand-new perspective. The team treated on the beach and in the ocean using standup paddle boards, hydrotherapy and the elements naturally provided. The healthcare and fitness volunteers included chiropractors, acupuncturists, physical therapists, personal trainers, and other fitness providers. Taunie witnessed how these providers coming together with a common goal while using a broad spectrum of health interventions and principles, improved treatment effectiveness.

Inspired to become licensed to be a contributing part of such an effective team, Taunie completed a Physical Therapist Assistant program. Now, as part of the Vida team where integrated care is the model, Taunie is excited to be “living the dream” with Vida’s team-oriented approach.

Taunie and her sweet kindergartener are loving being back in the PNW, close to family and trees. As an amateur carpenter and potter, she spends her free time creating with clay and wood, dancing, hiking, traveling, singing, and lifting.

Education

Post-Graduate Training