By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

A native of Gadsden and a long-time Alabaster resident, Susan Pnazek has worked as an LPTA (Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant) for 40 years.

When she was in high school both her father and brother were in the hospital going through physical therapy.

Pnazek would go with them and decided at that time that this would be her chosen field.

She had already considered a medical career of some type.

“I’ve have never regretted that decision in the 40 years I have been in this field,” says Pnazek.

After graduating from Gadsden High School, Pnazek attended Gadsden State Community College and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

She holds an associate’s degree in physical therapy.

“I have worked in hospital, nursing home, out-patient and private home settings,” Pnazek says. “Most of my career has been in the home health setting, and for the last 10 years I have worked for Amedisys Home Health. A typical day on the job begins at home with me checking e-mails, verifying schedules and talking to patients.

“Then I go to see patients, usually seven to eight per day.”

Pnazek loves her job, especially going into the homes of her patients to see the progress they have made after surgery or illness.

“It is so rewarding to see their advancement,” she said.

Susan met Kurt Pnazek at a pool party after they had both finished college and they were married about a year later.

Kurt is a retired teacher and coach.

Pnazek says an Alaskan cruise would be “a dream come true” for their 40th anniversary next year.

The Pnazeks have two children: Son Casey, age 30, recently married to Samantha, is an account executive for Amedisys Home Health Care; and son Cole, age 24, who is a student at Lawson State studying graphic art design.

Susan’s home church is First Presbyterian of Alabaster, where she sings in the choir and has served as an elder, Sunday School teacher and youth leader.

Hobbies include reading, cooking and travel.

Dreams for the future are retirement and travel.

Pnazek lives a full and rewarding life and is happy to be here in Alabaster.