Published on: 10 July 2023
A children’s physiotherapist at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has been praised for providing exceptional bespoke care to a young patient struggling with mobility issues since birth. 
Emma Graham, Senior Physiotherapist for Children’s Services, has supported a young patient, Logan, with his long-term disability.
Logan’s mum, Kirsty, explained that her son needed consistency, familiarity and trust in a physiotherapist as it is an uncomfortable process for him to endure.
Kirsty said: “Emma took her time to communicate and get to know Logan before any physio took place, which helped to build a better rapport with him. Emma just gets it. She sees the child first and then their disability and that’s why progress has been made with my son.
“I think it is important to share the fantastic work that Emma and her team carry out because without it my son would not be getting the right support he needs. I hope that people like Emma understand how much of a positive impact they have on not only their patients but their loved ones too.
“This has been an extremely hard time for me but Emma and her team have made it that little bit more manageable, and for that I am so grateful!”
Logan is still receiving physiotherapy for his long-term disability and is still in the Trust’s care but seems to be making good progress with Emma’s support.
Alison Powles, Area Service Manager at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Emma sets the bar high for physiotherapists. Her natural ability to make children feel at ease and co-operate with her is a real testament to how fantastic she is at her job.
“Emma is a shining example to not only physiotherapy staff but to all colleagues across Derbyshire Healthcare, highlighting the importance of putting our patients at the heart of everything we do and taking the time to get things right. Very well done, Emma!”
Emma was overjoyed to have received such positive feedback from a patient and their mum, she said: “I am delighted that my time with Logan has been so positive and made a lasting impact on both him and his mum. It is little reminders like this that make you realise why you do what you do.
“Seeing a smile on Logan’s face is what it really comes down to, so I am really touched. Logan has not had it easy but taking the time to get to know him has been exceptionally rewarding.”
