I my Physio competition

And the winner is Nathan Fitz-Gerald of the Gold Coast.

On the eve of World Physiotherapy Day, 8 September 2012, the Australia Physiotherapy Association (APA) is pleased to announce the winner of the inaugural national i my Physio competition. Applicants were asked to tell the APA about their physiotherapist and why they them.Nathan Fitz-Gerald from Labrador, who underwent a lung transplant, and his physiotherapist, Sally Elsom, from Gold Coast Hospital, have been chosen as winners.

Here is Nathans story: My name is Nathan and I suffer from cystic fibrosis. At the end of 2011 my disease had progressed to the terminal stage. My only option was to receive the gift of life, a double lung transplant. I received that gift on 13 of March 2012. None of this would have happened if it wasn't for my dedicated physiotherapist, Sally Elsom. She never gave up on me, even at my worst and always kept my hopes high. Sally would be beside my bed, day after day, giving me at times painful treatments to get me across the line. And that she did, and for that I thank her. My life has now changed dramatically. With the continuing persistence of Sally, I have now found a new love for exercise without oxygen and severe coughing fits; and recently I completed my first ever 5.7km fun run at the Gold Coast Marathon in June with Sally by my side. The past few years have been a financial struggle as well, as I have not been able to work. If I win this competition, I would put the proceeds towards a new bike to complete my first ever triathlon. World Physiotherapy Day is an opportunity to recognise the work that physiotherapists do for their patients and community. Nathan and physiotherapist Sally Elsom competing in the Gold Coast Marathon in June.

physiotherapy.asn.au

This year the panel had its work cut out, with more than 250 impressive entries from around the country and across many different fields of physiotherapy, APA President and judging panelist Melissa Locke said. Nathans story is inspiring for us all; it was really touching to see this young man overcome a terminal diagnosis and develop a new love for exercise and life. We were very impressed by the professional and personal commitment demonstrated by his physiotherapist. Sally went above and beyond her normal daily duties to support Nathan during his illness and recovery and is now competing with him in fun runs - that is dedication! Nathans story highlights the benefit of clinical excellence, a positive attitude and the right support. Nathan and Sally have each won an iPad and $1000.

For more information, contact: Erik Froese Australian Physiotherapy Association P: (+61) 3 9092 0829 M (+61) 457 963 675 E erik.froese@physiotherapy.asn.au Nathan immediately post surgery

About World Physiotherapy Day World Physiotherapy Day falls on 8 September every year. Its an opportunity for physiotherapists from all over the world to raise awareness about the crucial role their profession plays in making and keeping people healthy, mobile and independent. The day was established in 1996, by the World Confederation for Physiotherapythe profession's global body representing over 300 000 physiotherapists in 101 countries. Physiotherapy has been practised in Australia for more than 100 years, and the organisation that became the APA was established in 1906.

physiotherapy.asn.au