Member Recognition: Ted Boal

Ted with his wife Deb

APTA MN would like to recognize long term member Ted Boal of Maple Grove!

Ted has been a Physical Therapist for over 40 years, working for Adara Home Care for 5 years, Minnesota Veterans Home for 15 years, Courage Center for 5 years, and Rehab Services for 12 yrs. He was Credentialed as a Clinic Site Supervisor and worked with numerous PT and PTA students throughout his career. He received an award from the University of MN PT Program as Clinical Supervisor of the Year. Ted has also been a member of the APTA MN Chapter for many years where his most significant contribution among many was serving as Editor of Soundwaves, our old APTA MN Newsletter.   

Ted has had a very positive influence on many people associated with APTA MN. Judy Hawley stated that as Editor of Soundwaves, he took pride in his editing job, took it very seriously, and was “ALWAYS A PERFECTIONIST”.  Leslie Gentner was in charge of the Conference Planning Committee and worked with Ted promoting the Conference in Soundwaves. He ran Soundwaves on a precise timeline, but always with kind and humorous nudges to get submissions to him. Leslie went on to say that Ted is a person of deep spiritual faith, knowledgeable and humble. She considers him a valued colleague to this day. 

Linda Gustafson worked with Ted in Long Term and Transitional Care. Observing and learning from Ted provided a wonderful foundation as she began what would be 10 plus years of service in LTC. Ted’s connections with patients, families and staff were respectful, tailored to the individual, positive, skilled and truly made a difference. As her supervisor, Ted provided Linda with support, encouragement and a listening ear. He established clear expectations and standards for provision of skilled services and person-centered care and ongoing professional growth, expanding professional skills and knowledge.

Karen Lamecker commented on Ted’s skills as a Clinical Instructor. She was able to observe him both challenge and support PT and PTA students. Rather than supplying quick answers to questions, he would guide the student in finding the answer. She believed this gave students the confidence to venture effectively into the professional world.

Ann Ryan also commented on some of Ted’s characteristics. Shortly after 9/11, when tensions were very high against Muslims, Ted was working home care and had several patients in the Somali community. He shared how grief stricken they were about their young men being drawn into the terrorist movements. She was impressed by how he was so present with the Somali mothers who shared their deep feelings, and how quickly Ted’s response was to look for solutions for the next generation.

APTA MN would like to congratulate and thank Ted for his lifelong contribution to the Physical Therapy profession and for his dedicated service to our Minnesota Chapter.