Why am I wearing Orange?
If you've watched the video below or visited the clinic here in Maldon recently, you might have noticed a change in my usual wardrobe. I’ve traded my standard clinical wear for a bright orange t-shirt.
It’s not just a bold fashion choice. That orange shirt represents an organisation and a cause that is deeply personal to me and one that I am incredibly proud to support: the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association.
A Tribute to a Rugby Legend
In the video above, I talk about a true hero of mine, the legendary Springbok rugby player Joost van der Westhuizen. For anyone who follows rugby, Joost was an absolute titan on the pitch. But for me, his legacy goes far beyond the game.
Joost was the first person I ever had the privilege of meeting who was living with Motor Neurone Disease. He bravely battled MND until his sad passing in 2017. Meeting him was a profoundly moving experience that stayed with me. It opened my eyes to the devastating reality of this condition, but also to the incredible courage of those who face it. It planted a seed that has driven my desire to help ever since.
A Privilege to Serve: My Role with the MND Association
I am immensely honoured to share that I currently act as a volunteer Special Advisor for the MND Association.
Throughout my career—both as a clinical physiotherapist and during my nearly two decades in executive NHS commissioning roles—my goal has always been to advocate for the best possible patient care and support systems. Being invited to bring that strategic and clinical experience to the MND Association is one of the greatest privileges of my professional life.
When you visit Performance Physio Maldon, you are trusting me with your health, your recovery, and your wellbeing. I take that responsibility very seriously. Holding this advisory role with the MND Association is a reflection of those same core values: a commitment to clinical excellence, compassionate care, and fighting for the resources that patients desperately need. Whether I am treating a sports injury here in Essex or advising on healthcare commissioning strategies at a national level, my focus remains entirely on helping people live better, healthier lives.
Help, Support, and Making a Difference
Motor Neurone Disease is a complex and life-shortening condition, but no one has to face it alone. The MND Association does phenomenal work funding research, campaigning for better care, and providing direct support to individuals and families affected by the disease.
If you or someone you love has been impacted by MND, or if you simply want to learn more about the incredible work this charity does, I urge you to explore the links below:
Thank you to everyone across Maldon, Heybridge, Danbury, and the wider Essex community who continues to support Performance Physio. It is an absolute privilege to serve as your local physiotherapist and to use this platform to highlight a cause that means so much to me.
Next time you see me in that orange t-shirt, you'll know exactly why I'm wearing it!
For more information about our clinic or to book an appointment, please visit www.performancephysiomaldon.com.
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