3 minute read
COFFEE TALK
MARIANNE UMPHLETT
LKN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
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A sit-down chat with MARIANNE UMPHLETT of LKN Speech-Language Pathology
Our First Cup
I grew up in Wilmington when it was still a sleepy little beach town. My parents moved there when I was 5, and we spent lots of time at Wrightsville Beach. I went to school and church with all the same people my entire life, so when it was time for college, the mountains and Appalachian State University caught my attention. I earned my undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders and a North Carolina teaching certificate. I then attended the University of South Carolina to earn my master’s degree in speech language pathology with a minor in audiology.
The Best Part of Waking Up
A Warm Cup of Gratitude
In 2009, armed with more than two decades of clinical experience in hospitals, outpatient settings, home health, and management of rehabilitation services, I finally opened my own private independent practice. I’m proud of the courage it took and that we have stayed true to our mission of creating strong relationships with the families that we serve. They remain our priority and bottom line. We are not owned or managed by a large corporation or hospital-based network and do not operate under productivity models. I am so proud of our team and feel they are some of the absolute finest speech language pathologists. I’m not sure how I got to be so lucky … it humbles me, and I am grateful.
Family, Faith, and Fortitude
My mother always encouraged me to pursue higher education, find a career that I loved, and to be independent. My dad said that as a toddler I would sit in his lap and hold his face in my hands and make him look at me to answer my questions. I also took an active role in teaching my 4-year-old brother how to read when I was only 10. As an anxious teenager, I prayed so hard for God to show me what my purpose and career calling should be, but I guess I always knew it would be helping people in some capacity.
A Strong and Beautiful Blend
Kevin and I were high school sweethearts and married in 1987. After we both landed jobs in Charlotte, we quickly discovered Lake Norman and bought an old sailboat; we named it The Spirit of 1976 and kept it docked at the old Outrigger marina and campground that is now known as the Peninsula Yacht Club.
We built our home in 1994 and have been here ever since. Our kids, Sarah and Will, are strong individuals—compassionate, bright, and hardworking, and we couldn’t be prouder as we adjust to the empty-nest years. Being well rested, starting my day in prayer and meditation with a great cup of coffee, and going to the gym to work out with my personal trainer and lady friends … now that’s a great day! It’s funny how a perfect day can change over time—22 years ago, it was a baby who was healthy and could sleep through the night … today, it’s hoping I can be healthy and sleep through the night. The seasons of life certainly change your perspectives, and we must trust the transformations that only time can bring us. I have learned to be more present, intentional, and grateful. I have had a blessed life but have also dealt with my share of challenges, and these are the things that stretch you and make you stronger if you allow them to. It’s your attitude, relationship with God, and those around you that make the difference.
Marianne Umphlett is an ASHA-certified, NC-licensed speech-language pathologist and owner of LKN Speech-Language Pathology located at 126 S. Main Street, Suite 2A (above Main Street Books) in Davidson. Connect with Marianne and her team at 704.641.0338, info@lkn-slp.com, or via www.lkn-slp.com.
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