As a youngster I always walked on my toes, which caused me to have shortened calf muscles and tendons. As a 13 year old girl I attended Mike Uglow’s clinic to ascertain if there was anything could be done. After a period of intense physiotherapy it was clear that I needed surgery. I therefore had a bilateral gastro release operation that went to plan and I was looked after fantastically well at the Spire Southampton Hospital.
I then had a period of rehabilitation and physiotherapy with Mel South and Simon Collins to ensure that I did not return to my former toe walking. Everything went exceptionally well and I never toe walked or suffered pain again.
At the age of 18 I decided to join the Royal Marines Band Service. My application was fine apart from them needing, understandably, supporting medical evidence to show that I had no issues with my lower legs that would effect the high level of physical training I would be enduring. Mike Uglow, Mel South and Simon Collins all examined me and imputed into written reports for my appeal. Mel and Simon carried out gait analysis and strength tests including producing video evidence.
I was able to submit this written test analysis and video evidence as part of my appeal and because of the quality and highly professional supporting information it provided I was successful. I would not have got pass the medical stage of my application without it. I recently completed my 12 week highly intense and physical Royal Marine initial training and have now entered the Royal Marines Band Service as a musician.
Without the brilliant help I received from Mike, Mel and Simon from the foot and ankle team at Perform I would not now be living my dream and cannot thank them enough for their excellent professionalism and support.