Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Borgmeyer.
Hi Linda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
The inception of Novoleo Therapy and Fitness is a story deeply intertwined with the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, a period that reshaped our lives and the way we approach healthcare.
At the age of 56, amidst the global upheaval, I made a pivotal decision (encouraged by my daughter) to leave a corporate job that I not only loved but where I had spent years building a career. This wasn’t a decision made lightly; it was driven by a profound realization that seniors were isolating and failing physically at an alarming rate due to the pandemic. I knew in my heart that my skills and passion could make a difference in their lives, and so, the journey of Novoleo Therapy and Fitness began.
The plan was simple yet ambitious. I would go out to the homes to treat seniors, focusing solely on their care and rehabilitation, while my daughter, Ashlin Galbraith, would manage the Medicare billing and all other facets of running the business. This division of labor allowed me to concentrate fully on what I do best—caring for seniors and providing them with the therapy they need to improve their quality of life.
I zeroed in on residential assisted living homes, which are cozy, neighborhood homes converted into 6-10 bed assisted living spaces. These settings, I believe, offered a unique opportunity for personalized care in a comfortable and familiar environment. My first step was to reach out to Home Suite Home in Jupiter, Florida, where I explained my services and vision. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and by the time I completed my last day at the corporate job, I already had a full caseload waiting for me. It was a clear sign that I was on the right path, fulfilling a need that was both urgent and deeply appreciated.
The journey, of course, was not without its challenges. Transitioning from a structured corporate environment to the unpredictable world of home-based therapy required adaptability, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to my mission. Yet, the rewards have been immeasurable. Seeing the tangible improvements in my clients’ lives, witnessing their joy at being able to regain independence, and knowing that I was contributing to their well-being in a significant way has been incredibly fulfilling.
As word of our work spread, many of my therapy friends, inspired by the impact we were making, joined me. Together, we’ve been able to expand our services, reaching more seniors and making a difference in more lives. Novoleo Therapy and Fitness has grown from a solo mission into a thriving team of dedicated professionals, all united by a common goal—to provide exceptional care and support to seniors in their homes.
Looking back, the decision to leave my corporate job and embark on this journey was one of the best I’ve ever made. It wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about answering a call to serve a community in need during one of the most challenging times in recent history. Novoleo Therapy and Fitness is more than just a company; it’s a testament to the power of compassion, dedication, and the belief that we can make a difference, one senior at a time.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Embarking on the journey with Novoleo Therapy and Fitness during the pandemic was far from a smooth road. The challenges were numerous and varied, each presenting its own set of obstacles and learning opportunities. Among the most significant hurdles were navigating the complexities of the Medicare system, managing the rapid growth of the company, selecting the right electronic medical record (EMR) software, and overcoming stereotypes about home-based care.
Navigating the Medicare System: One of the initial and ongoing challenges has been understanding and efficiently navigating the Medicare system. Medicare billing and compliance are complex, with regulations that are constantly evolving. Ensuring that we remained compliant while also maximizing the benefits for our clients required a steep learning curve. My daughter Ashlin played a crucial role in this aspect, managing the intricacies of Medicare billing and helping to streamline our processes. However, it was a challenge that demanded continuous attention and adaptation to ensure we could provide our services without interruption.
Preparing for Growth: The rapid growth that followed our initial success was both a blessing and a challenge. Choosing the right team to support this expansion was critical. We needed professionals who were not only highly skilled and knowledgeable but also shared our values and commitment to providing compassionate, personalized care. Additionally, selecting the right electronic medical record (EMR) software to support our growing company was essential. The software needed to be intuitive, efficient, and capable of supporting our unique workflow.
Breaking Stereotypes: Perhaps one of the most disheartening challenges was confronting and breaking the stereotypes surrounding home-based care. There was a prevalent misconception in the community that home-based therapy was somehow “watered down” or less effective than clinic-based services. This stereotype couldn’t be further from the truth. Home-based care allows for highly personalized, one-on-one attention in the comfort of the client’s environment, which can significantly enhance the effectiveness of therapy. Overcoming this misconception required not just words but actions. We are committed to consistently demonstrating the quality and effectiveness of our services, showcasing tangible improvements in our clients’ lives. It was a challenge that. We met with unwavering success.
Despite these challenges, the journey has been incredibly rewarding. Each obstacle presented an opportunity to learn, grow, and further refine our services. The struggles along the way have not only strengthened our resolve but have also deepened our commitment to providing exceptional care to seniors in their homes. The satisfaction of overcoming these hurdles and making a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients has been the greatest reward of all.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At Novoleo Therapy and Fitness, co-owned with my daughter Ashlin Galbraith, we’ve dedicated ourselves to revolutionizing home-based physical therapy, occupational therapy, and fitness for adults. Our mission is clear: to deliver personalized, top-tier rehabilitation and wellness services directly to our clients’ homes. Our specialization lies in blending therapy with tailored fitness programs, aiming to significantly enhance our client’s quality of life.
What truly distinguishes us is our commitment to a holistic care approach. We look beyond mere physical health, considering the emotional and social facets that contribute to overall well-being. Our services are meticulously designed to not only improve physical capabilities—such as strength and balance—but also to empower our clients towards greater independence and a more fulfilling life.
The pride of our work lies in the positive transformations we witness. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see our clients regain not just physical strength but also a zest for life. This impact—marked by enhanced independence, joy, and satisfaction—is what we’re most proud of. It’s the heartwarming feedback from our clients and their families that truly sets our work apart.
Our approach to education further differentiates us. Ashlin and I are deeply invested in educating not just our clients but also the wider community about the benefits of an active lifestyle, regardless of age. We advocate for practical, everyday strategies to enhance safety and ease, making a significant difference in the lives of those we touch.
The dynamic partnership between Ashlin and me brings a unique blend of perspectives, innovation, and passion to Novoleo Therapy and Fitness. Our combined strengths enable us to offer services that are not only effective but also deeply compassionate and responsive to our client’s needs.
In essence, Novoleo Therapy and Fitness stand out because of our holistic, client-centered approach, our unwavering commitment to making a real difference, and the unique synergy between Ashlin and me. Together, we’re not just providing therapy and fitness services; we’re enhancing lives, one home visit at a time.
In addition, Ashlin and I started a non-profit called “Wisdom Warrior Challenge” which is an annual track event for seniors held during March and April. The 2024 season boasts 24 teams and over 1200 athletes in Florida and North Carolina. It is the 3rd year and was born during the pandemic. The event is free to all who participate and is sponsored by national organizations such as Fox Rehab, Healthcare Solutions, AARP Florida, CapTel Captioned Telephone, and Dignity Memorial. Local businesses also support the event. Our first race of this season is on March 6 at The Vi at Lakeside Senior Community in Lantana, Florida.
I am also a volunteer advocate with AARP Florida with my focus being health care-related bills that would affect my clients. I want to represent their needs and AARP gives me the support to do just that.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Reflecting on the essence of our success at Novoleo Therapy and Fitness, several core qualities and characteristics resonate deeply with our mission and approach. Among these, resilience, a commitment to evidence-based therapy, mentorship and continuous education for our staff, empathy, and a personalized, family-like treatment approach stand out as fundamental pillars.
Resilience has been crucial, not just in navigating the challenges of running a healthcare business but also in adapting to the ever-changing needs of our clients. It’s this resilience that enables us to push forward, innovate, and continuously improve our services, ensuring we’re always there for our clients, no matter the circumstances.
Staying up to date on current research to ensure we are providing evidence-based therapy is another cornerstone of our practice. This commitment to scientific rigor ensures that the care we offer is not only effective but also aligned with the latest advancements in our field. It’s through this dedication to excellence that we can make a real, measurable difference in the lives of those we serve.
Mentoring and providing continuing education for our staff is equally important. By fostering a culture of learning and growth, we ensure that our team is not only skilled but also passionate and informed about the latest trends and techniques in therapy and fitness. This ongoing education is vital in maintaining the high standard of care that Novoleo Therapy and Fitness is known for.
Empathy is at the heart of everything we do. Treating our clients as if they are family, we strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. This empathetic approach extends beyond mere treatment plans; it’s about building relationships and understanding our client’s unique journeys, fears, and aspirations.
Lastly, acknowledging the clients’ unique circumstances and offering a meaningful treatment approach tailored to their specific needs is what truly sets us apart. We recognize that each client’s journey is distinct, and by providing personalized, compassionate care, we ensure that our therapy not only addresses their physical needs but also resonates with their personal story and lifestyle.
In sum, it’s the synergy of these qualities—resilience, a commitment to evidence-based practice, continuous education and mentorship, empathy, and personalized care—that underpins our success at Novoleo Therapy and Fitness. These principles guide us in our mission to provide exceptional, holistic care that enriches the lives of our clients and their families.
Contact Info:
- Website: NovoleoTF.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novoleotf/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/novoleotf
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/novoleotf/
- Youtube: https://www.facebook.com/novoleotf
