2021 Excellence in Healthcare Honoree: Kelsey Zamoyski

Kelsey Zamoyski, the owner of Defy Therapy & Wellness, received her Master’s in Occupational Therapy from SUNY University at Buffalo. Kelsey is a National Board Certified Occupational Therapist, Certified Hand Therapist, and Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist. She specializes in treating shoulder, elbow, and hand dysfunction.

Favorite Quote: Sometimes, life is about risking everything for a dream no one can see but you.

Fun Fact: There are two of me! I have an identical twin sister.

What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them? In a small business, there is a new challenge every day. Among other things, I’ve experienced personal injuries, vendor difficulties, electrical outages, and flooding. With perseverance and a great support team, both personally and professionally, I’ve met these obstacles head-on and continue to grow and adapt.

What has been the most monumental moment of your career thus far? The most monumental moment of my career was leaving my job to take the leap and officially launch Defy Therapy & Wellness.

How is the healthcare industry important to you personally? At a young age, I was diagnosed with a genetic joint disorder with no cure and limited treatment options. Now, as an occupational therapy provider, my experiences as a patient help me inspire others to see that their diagnoses do not have to be limitations.

How did the pandemic disrupt your specific role in the healthcare industry, and how did you adapt? The pandemic gave our team a chance to re-evaluate how we serve our clients and maintain their trust. In response, we enhanced our policies and procedures by implementing COVID screening protocols and reducing patient volume in the clinic. As guidance changed, we maintained transparency through continued communication with our clients.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten? Stick with your dreams no matter what anyone says and never stop learning.

What do you love most about working in healthcare? The ability to truly make a difference for someone by improving their quality of life.

You May Also Like
SFBW’s 2025 Excellence in HR Awards

South Florida Business and Wealth’s 2025 Excellence in Human Resource Awards took place at Sport of Kings at Gulfstream Park to recognize leaders in the HR industry.

Read More
PHOTOS: 2024 Apogee Awards

The unique and prestigious program honors the visionary leadership of the local business community.

Read More
Apogee Awards
Photos: Building Connections at Ferrari

The unique setting and well-curated guest list contributed to meaningful conversations.

Read More
Building Connections
CEO Connect: Tips on Cybersecurity for Businesses

Even small businesses should not be complacent.

Read More
CEO Connect Cyber Security
Other Posts
PHOTOS: SFBW’s Diversity & Inclusion Awards

Thank you to all who participated in this year’s SFBW Diversity & Inclusion Awards.

Read More
SFBW Diversity & Inclusion Awards 2024
Celebrating South Florida’s Prestigious Women

Giving thanks to all our honorees for being the leaders who make South Florida a better place.

Read More
Prestigious Women
VIDEO RECAP: Highlights From SFBW’s 2024 Prestigious Women Awards Luncheon

We honor the women who contribute to the betterment of South Florida’s community.

Read More
Prestigious Women’s Awards
SFBW and JC White Host Panel Discussion on Tenant Representation

Discover tips on how to move your business and minimize the pain.

Read More
JC White