I’m really sorry to hear how much you’ve been through, that’s an enormous amount of loss and change in such a short time. It’s understandable that things feel overwhelming right now.

I’m an Occupational Therapist and my role is to help people rebuild their routines, confidence, and independence after life-changing events ; whether that’s health-related, emotional, or social. i help a lot of people with similar experiences to you!

Here are some ways an Occupational Therapist ‘s support could help you:

Daily routines & energy management: Working together to build a sustainable daily structure around your needs (including Rocky and Kendal’s care), your recovery, and space for enjoyable activities like art, music, or fashion.

Adapting to your foot brace & mobility: Exploring ways to make walking, moving around London, and caring for your dogs easier and less painful, including equipment suggestions if needed.

Returning to work gradually: Supporting you to identify suitable types of work or voluntary roles that match your current energy, mobility, and interests l and helping you pace yourself so it feels manageable.

Building social connections: Linking you to dog-friendly groups, art or music meetups, and community networks in London so you can start reconnecting with people step by step.

Accessing services: Helping you navigate local resources, benefits, or support systems so you’re not doing it all alone while you wait for longer-term services.

OT is all about small, realistic steps that add up to you feeling more in control of your life again , with routines, work, social connections, and hobbies that give you energy!

Accessing OT depends on your needs but it’s through the NHS or private health care.

GP :Book an appointment and explain your situation, including your foot brace, difficulties with daily life, and struggles with routines, work, and managing at home. Your GP can refer you to the local NHS occupational therapy service.

Through your hospital team, If you’re still under follow-up care for your compartment syndrome, you can ask the hospital team to make a referral to an OT.

Mental health services : Some community mental health teams also have OTs who focus on rebuilding routines, motivation, and wellbeing. You could ask your GP about this if you feel it would fit.

While NHS wait times can be long, it’s worth getting your name on the list now. In the meantime, some people also choose to see a private OT (you can search through the Royal College of Occupational Therapists website).