Dr.Fingerhut is a clinical assistant professor and the academic fieldwork coordinator in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, Texas.  Originally from Canada she earned her bachelor's degree in occupational therapy (1979) and her master's degree in occupational therapy (2000) from the University of Alberta. Her PhD. in occupational therapy (2005) is from Texas Woman's University. Before joining UTMB Patricia worked as a clinical occupational therapist in pediatrics for 25 years in private practice, school systems, and hospital settings in both Alberta and Texas. Teaching and research interests are in the areas of pediatrics and neurological conditions for both children and adults with a particular focus on the impact of caring for a child with special needs on the family. Her life is completed by her husband, three children, and two dogs.