Persevering Gun Violence
Amanda Parezo, a Philadelphia occupational therapist, was shot by a stray bullet and paralyzed on May 21, 2021. As an OT who worked with people suffering from spinal injuries, she instantly knew she was paralyzed. Since then, she has become an advocate for gun violence awareness and accessibility. She teaches occupational therapy and uses social media to share her experiences. Patricia Wu, Jessica Reyes, and Jerry Levine dive into Parezo’s story.
An Epidemic on American Streets
The ripple effects of gun violence extend far beyond the immediate victims leaving families and loved ones with unimaginable grief, trauma, and loss. The psychological and emotional toll of gun violence can be immense, leading to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health conditions.