D.J. Kennedy, MD, professor and chair of the Vanderbilt University Medical Center Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), recently completed his yearlong term as president of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) at the helm of the organization’s annual conference, held Nov. 6-10 in San Diego.
The conference showcased the vital importance and transformative impact of PM&R, often referred to as physiatry, which plays a crucial role in health care. PM&R physicians are dedicated to enhancing and restoring functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities. This specialty addresses a wide array of conditions, from sports injuries and spinal cord injuries to stroke recovery and chronic pain management. The conference underscored the discipline’s commitment to patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research.
Kennedy’s address to the conference set a tone of optimism and determination.
“Our patients are at the center of everything we do, and as we connect this week, we are focused on a mission that transcends differences and truly improves lives,” he said. “This sentiment embodies this year’s theme, ‘The Power of PM&R.’ It reflects not only the strength of our specialty, but also our Academy’s commitment to supporting each of you, our members, and advancing the field as a whole.”
The conference featured two keynote speakers that Kennedy helped recruit to the gathering as AAPM&R president.
Comedian and ophthalmologist Will Flanary, known to many as “Dr. Glaucomflecken” on social media, brought his blend of humor and insight to the stage. As a practicing ophthalmologist and a cancer survivor, Flanary shared his journey with resilience and hope.
Josh Sundquist, a Paralympian, bestselling author and motivational speaker, delivered an address that celebrated overcoming adversity and embracing one’s unique strengths. Sundquist, who lost his leg to cancer at a young age, has become an advocate for those with disabilities and a symbol of perseverance. His message of “One More Thing, One More Time” inspired attendees to push beyond their limits and strive for excellence.
Kennedy, who joined VUMC in 2018, is a dual board-certified physician (in PM&R and Sports Medicine), and his clinical practice focuses mainly on interventional and noninterventional spine care. Before serving as president, he had many roles within the AAPM&R, including being the inaugural chair of the Inclusion & Engagement Strategic Coordinating Committee, which focused on enhancing diversity and inclusion throughout the Academy.
