An inspiring physiotherapist at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was recently honoured at the Parkinson’s UK Excellence Network Awards.

Nominated by several patients and families, Suzanne Seymour, neuro-specialist physiotherapist, won the People’s Choice award in November. Suzanne set up a group for people recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s in North Devon.

The families shared: “Power UP has been transformational and inspiring. Suzanne has given hope to, and improved the fitness levels of, countless people with Parkinson’s.”

Following the award win, Suzanne commented: “Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s is life changing for a lot of people. It’s been an honour to work with the group and support them on their journey. I would like to raise awareness of the role physiotherapists play in providing care for people with Parkinson’s and how increasing physical activity can help a number of symptoms”.

Available to patients in North Devon, Power UP is a fun and informative course which runs over 11 weeks.  It includes an hour of exercise and 45 minutes of education about physical activity and Parkinson’s symptoms. 

Helen Cooke, head of therapies for northern services said “Suzanne has worked tirelessly to improve the quality and outcome of Therapy interventions for people with Parkinson’s. Her enthusiasm and commitment for this have not waivered and I am delighted for her and so very proud that she has won this award in recognition of her hard work.”

The Royal Devon is renowned for doing things differently. It empowers colleagues to be creative and innovative in developing services for the benefit of patients and families served by the trust. To find out more about joining the Royal Devon, visit the careers website: https://www.royaldevon.nhs.uk/careers/