A LOCAL charity is highlighting the role of physiotherapy in helping people living with a terminal illness.
World Physiotherapy Day takes place tomorrow (8th September) to recognise the contribution of those working in the sector to society.
Among them is Ainsley Hardman who is part of the team at St Giles Hospice.
He works closely with patients to provide support to help them remain mobile, support breathless management or assist with symptom control.
Paul, a patient recently supported by Ainsley, said:
"The physiotherapy support at St Giles Hospice has been fantastic since I first arrived.
"Before my diagnosis, I enjoyed a wide range of hobbies, but I have since had to adapt these to more chair-based activities, such as gardening and painting.
"The physiotherapy support from St Giles has helped me rebuild strength in my legs, enabling me to get out of bed and walk short distances again. This has made a real difference to my quality of life."
Since receiving care and support from Ainsley and the team on the Inpatient Unit, Paul was able to return home.
Leon Ratcliffe, director of clinical services at St Giles Hospice, said:
"At St Giles, physiotherapy is delivered alongside specialist medical, nursing, therapeutic care to provide a holistic approach tailored to each patient's individual needs and priorities.
"World Physiotherapy Day is an opportunity for us to raise awareness of the positive impact physiotherapy has on our patients and to celebrate colleagues, like Ainsley, who provide the best care and support to our patients each and every day."
