Sherri Gagne, PTA
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s of Science in Liberal Arts from Eastern Mennonite University | Associates in Science in Physical Therapy Assistant from Central Penn College
CERTIFICATIONS | SPECIALTIES:
Bone-Fit training through Bone Health Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF)
Peer Educator training through American Bone Health
CONTACT:
sgagne@hartzpt.com
717.844.6500
What Makes Sherri Special
Sherri Gagne (pronounced like Kanye but with a G), part of our Manheim team is a part-time PTA, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in private practice. She loves helping patients recover from surgery, manage pain, and stay motivated along the way. In 2023, she also started teaching an exercise class for osteoporosis patients, now offered at Brethren Village for both residents and the community.
Her expertise spans a wide range of conditions, including pre- and post-operative rehabilitation, neurological conditions, and sports rehabilitation. Sherri has also been instrumental in helping patients transition from formal therapy to long-term wellness through personal fitness and bridge programs, ensuring they continue to meet their functional goals well beyond discharge.
What truly sets Sherri apart is her dedication to innovative, preventative care. She is Bone-Fit trained through the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) and a certified Peer Educator through American Bone Health, giving her specialized expertise in osteoporosis management and safe, evidence-based exercise. Her passion for proactive wellness led her to teach an Osteo-Fit class for over two years, helping participants build bone strength, improve balance, and maintain independence.
Outside of work, Sherri is a busy mom to two boys, enjoys gardening, and spends time with her husband and their mini Goldendoodle, Kona.
Want to know more? Here’s a little Q & A…
Why did you choose to be a PTA for your profession?
It all started in 2003, when I was working in the front office of a PT practice. It was exciting to see patients come to PT because of doctor’s orders and thinking it wouldn’t be helpful. But in a couple of months, they were finished and amazed at how much PT helped them. I realized I wanted to help patients recover. While I continued to work full time, I went back to college to become a PTA. I’m so glad I did!
What’s something that has surprised you about your chosen career path?
I’m still amazed at how much I enjoy my job, even after 20 years! What surprised me about this career was how much of a rapport I would establish with my patients.
What energizes you at work?
My patients! When patients tell me they no longer have pain or they can perform a task that they were unable to do at the beginning of PT. I also enjoy getting to know my patients, finding out we have mutual connections and getting recommendations to local businesses.
Most important advice you give your patients?
Healing takes time and is a process. We just need to be patient. Two phrases I use often: “motion is lotion” and “if you rest, you rust.”
What is one thing that instantly makes your day better?
A call or text from family/friends. Hugs.
Where would you be right now if you had zero obligations and money didn’t matter?
Somewhere warm, it’s cold as I’m typing this! 😊 Can I say travel the world? There are so many places I would like to see and places I would love to revisit. The first few places that come to mind are Australia, New Zealand and Greece.
Is there any experience you think everyone should be required to have? What is it?
I think everyone should have the opportunity to experience a third world country. It truly puts things into perspective and makes you thankful for what we have in our own back yard.
What’s your favorite tradition?
A tradition that began in my family since I was a child was finding the “perfect” Christmas tree, cutting it down and then decorating it with our yearly ornaments. I buy a new ornament each year that symbolizes something significant for that year.
How do you like to start your day?
With coffee and quiet time before heading to work.
What makes you laugh?
My boys, especially when they get that belly laugh. You can’t help but laugh with them 🙂
What’s something you’ve done, but you’ll never do again?
White water rafting