CBS Story Highlights Memorable Clinical Experience for PT Student

When a CBS Chicago news crew visited Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Midwestern University physical therapy student Ellie Bettenhausen (CHS-DG PT ’27) found herself briefly sharing the spotlight with a patient living with ALS.

But the story she remembers most wasn't about the cameras. It was about a man determined to stand, dance, and celebrate a moment of independence.

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Ellie, a Doctor of Physical Therapy student at Midwestern University's College of Health Sciences, was completing a clinical rotation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago when a local news crew documented the rehabilitation journey of a patient living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

While the cameras captured the patient’s story, Ellie was focused on helping the care team achieve one of the patient's most meaningful goals.

“One of his biggest goals was to be in the standing frame,” Ellie said. “Seeing his smile while standing, singing, and 'dancing' really shed light on the impact we can make on these patients.”

Although she played a supporting role in the patient’s care, Ellie assisted with tasks such as monitoring vital signs and helping the patient safely transfer into and out of the standing frame. More importantly, she observed the trust that had developed between the patient, his caregiver, and the rehabilitation team.

The experience reinforced lessons that extend far beyond physical mobility.

“I learned a lot about the trust that forms between each and every person who takes part in a patient’s plan of care and just how important the patient’s perspective and attitude are,” she said.

Working with a patient facing a progressive neurological disease also highlighted the importance of a strong support system and interdisciplinary care. Ellie saw firsthand how physical therapists, occupational therapists, caregivers, and physicians work together to maximize quality of life and independence.

Her rotation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab also broadened her understanding of the profession’s impact.

“Physical therapy is about so much more than helping someone walk farther or move better," she said. “Even when progress is minor or stagnant, the rapport we build with patients allows us to better understand their goals, educate them, and help them achieve the highest level of independence possible.”

Ellie credits Midwestern University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program with preparing her for the experience through rigorous coursework, evidence-based practice training, and hands-on clinical preparation.

The CBS story ultimately focused on a patient's resilience in the face of ALS. For Ellie, it also served as a reminder of the profound role rehabilitation professionals play in helping patients find moments of joy, dignity, and accomplishment.

“It truly was an incredible learning experience,” she said. “At the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, it was evident how much the therapists cared for each and every patient, and the patients really felt heard and seen. That’s key to improving quality of life.”