"Had a significant impact on my progress"

When I was transferred to ward 31 following 10 weeks in ICU, I had lost all mobility and needed assistance to complete the simplest tasks. Physio was onboard and I was introduced to Emma, an Exercise Practitioner. It soon became clear that she would have a significant impact on my progress.

Emma focused on building strength and improving balance, working in collaboration with Physio. On a typical day I would have physio helping me improve mobility followed by Emma who taught me the importance of muscle renewal through exercise.

Emma was very knowledgeable and encouraging and gave me her full attention during our sessions. By gently challenging me she helped me build confidence which I could then apply to my time with physio. She gave me an exercise program to follow over the long weekends which further improved my mobility.

Emma helped me believe I had the ability to walk again and, in tandem with physio, I have achieved my goal of walking unaided. I am very grateful that this service was offered to me and I value the importance of her contribution to my recovery as I wasn’t aware that Exercise Practitioners existed.

I'm testament to the benefits of receiving this therapy to enhance physio and ultimately reduce the length of hospital stays for patients with mobility issues. Thanks to both services I am now due for discharge.