Notts physiotherapist helps patient recover after serious fall
This week is Community Services Week (19 to 23 October) and a fantastic opportunity to highlight some outstanding patient feedback for one of our community physiotherapists.
Last year Kerry Haycox, from Mansfield, had a significant fall down some stairs, sustained a complex tibial plateau fracture and fracture to her right collar bone, both requiring surgery to insert metalwork.
Due to her significant injuries she was referred to Nottinghamshire Healthcare’s physiotherapy service. This is where she met Gift Okeah, Community Physiotherapist, based at Ashfield Health and Wellbeing Centre, who provided outstanding support.
Kerry said: “when I suffered a devastating fall in May last year, I could never have imagined just how dramatically my life was about to change — or that one physiotherapist would become such an important part of my journey to recovery.
“Having dedicated more than 26 years of my life to caring for others as a mental health nurse, following an accident on a spiral staircase, I suddenly found myself on the other side of healthcare, completely dependent on others.
“Following approximately seven weeks in hospital, I returned home facing an uncertain future.
“The physical injuries were significant, but so to was the emotional impact. I faced frustration, fear and uncertainty, not knowing how much mobility I would regain or whether I would ever return to the life I had known.
“It was during this particularly difficult period that I met Gift.”
Kerry felt Gift went above and beyond to provide the best treatment and care she had ever received.
Kerry continued: “Throughout my recovery, Gift supported me in ways that went far beyond her clinical role. She picked me up when I was at my lowest, reassured me through frustration and tears, and showed endless patience and kindness. Most importantly, she believed in me — often when I struggled to believe in myself. She took the time to help me walk again and supported me in conquering my biggest fear: getting up and down the stairs. I genuinely believe that without Gift’s dedication and commitment, I would not be where I am today — back at work doing the job I love, albeit currently from home due to ongoing limited mobility.
“Gift also went above and beyond in supporting my family and helping us adapt during my recovery. She delivered care that embodied every aspect of the Trust’s values and more. She is honest, reliable, dedicated, compassionate, respectful, understanding, patient, and a true team player. She always ensured the wider team were kept up to date with my progress and thoughtfully made provisions for cover or advice during her days off.
“Gift, I know I still have a way to go, but I am so grateful that you were with me through the hardest part of my journey and helped me take those first steps forward. You are a credit to your profession, your team, and Nottinghamshire Healthcare. You will always hold a special place in my heart as a part of my journey I will never forget.
I will carry your encouragement and kindness with me every “step” of the way. Thank you for never giving up on me.”
Before her fall, Kerry was independently mobile and worked as a healthcare professional within the Trust. Following discharge, her injuries significantly affected her independence, leaving her reliant on a formal care package and rotunda transfers (a circular standing and turning device) for daily activities and reliant on a wheelchair.
Kerry continued: “For me, recovery has been about much more than learning to walk again. It has been about rebuilding confidence, rediscovering independence and finding the determination to keep moving forward.
“And while my journey continues, I will never forget the physiotherapist who walked alongside me when those first steps seemed impossible.
“Because sometimes, the greatest difference a healthcare professional can make isn’t simply helping someone find their feet again — it’s helping them find the confidence to believe they can.
Gift Okeah, Community Physiotherapist said: “I was, and remain, deeply committed to helping Kerry regain her independence. Seeing a fellow healthcare colleague experience such a debilitating ordeal was difficult, but I remained optimistic about her recovery.
“I am delighted that we progressed from being chair-bound to mobilising around her home, completing daily activities such as showering and making a drink, and tackling her greatest fear of climbing the stairs.,
“This experience reinforces my passion as a physiotherapist: to add life to years, not just years to life. Thank you Kerry and Nottinghamshire Healthcare, for the opportunity to demonstrate this.”
Amy Eagle, Care Group Director of Community Health and Specialist Services at Nottinghamshire Healthcare, said:
“Kerry’s story is a powerful example of the difference our community physiotherapy teams make to people’s lives. Gift’s support went beyond physical rehabilitation, helping Kerry rebuild her confidence, overcome her fears and take important steps towards returning to everyday life.
“We are incredibly proud of the care Gift has provided and grateful to Kerry for sharing her experience. Her story highlights the importance of personalised, compassionate care and the positive impact it can have on recovery and quality of life.”
If you or someone you know needs physiotherapy support this can be accessed via a GP or hospital referral.
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