Celebrating hospital superheroes during COVID-19
29 June 2020
5
min read
Untitled Document
The coronavirus pandemic has revealed just how vital our medical practitioners are and one young patient is celebrating the “superhero” who’s been with him since his hospital journey began.
Physiotherapist Rachel Thomas has been by Joshie’s side since he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at one and, in the five years since, has supported him to improve his wellbeing, body motion and movement.
Following selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) surgery in June 2019, Rachel guided Joshie through numerous therapy sessions, supporting him to walk again. Now he runs and jumps everywhere he goes.
Joshie’s father, Chris, recently nominated Rachel for Juiced TV’s Super Hero Awards Program, proudly supported by QSuper. The program is an initiative launched by Juiced TV and QSuper to recognise medical and support professionals quietly transforming young lives.
When Chris, pictured above with Joshie, heard about the program, he immediately thought of Rachel.
There’s no one like Rachel. Her support has been so important to us – she’s been wonderful. It’s reassuring and it’s lovely to watch [Joshie and Rachel’s connection] from a parent’s point of view, and to know she’s got his best interests at heart as well. We trust her implicitly,” Chris said.
COVID-19 has placed limitations on the amount of face-to-face therapy workers like Rachel can provide, but hospital heroes across the country are continuing their vital work.
QSuper is also working hard to protect the wellbeing of Queenslander’s during COVID-19. In times like this we are committed to our long-term investment strategy, ensuring our members feel confident their future is in safe hands.
Rachel has continued to oversee Joshie’s therapy via phone and email, ensuring he continues his road to recovery. She said she was touched to be nominated for the award.
“I said to Chris, ‘I don’t know why you’ve nominated me as a superhero, you and Josh are the superheroes’, and Chris came back and said, ‘well it was you who helped him become one’,” Rachel said.
“The sky’s the limit for that kid; he’s got the best attitude and a growth mindset without even having to be told. He’s just the most beautiful kid to work with.”
Rachel is the seventh person to be nominated for Juiced TV’s Super Hero Awards.
Supporting those on the frontline
QSuper is proud to support Juiced TV and the awards program that celebrates the superheroes of the healthcare sector who put others’ best interests first.
View the latest Juiced TV episode