AN occupational therapist who works in Tavistock, Fie Johnson, has been selected as one of only six finalists in the nationwide search for the Stannah Stairlifts Occupational Therapist of the Year. Along with the other finalists, Fie will soon be quizzed by a panel of judges, led by consumer investigator and children?s rights campaigner, Esther Rantzen, and Jon Stannah, managing director of Stannah Stairlifts. A decision will be made as to who will receive the award in the next few weeks. In addition, Fie will receive recognition for her achievements and nomination from the Princess Royal, patron, College of Occupational Therapists, at the finalists awards ceremony in London in April. Fie has been nominated by one of her patients, Jackie Sargeant, for the assistance and support she provided in helping her and a number of other patients set up the Make a Difference café for mental health patients in recovery. Fie?s unstinting work and support has been invaluable to Jackie, who over the last year has made remarkable steps towards leading a more active and rewarding life to also help others. Jackie said: ?We are so grateful for all that Fie has done to help and support the café. ?She has given me and others the confidence to do things that we previously thought impossible. ?She encourages people to become involved with anything they would like to and encourages them to feel the café is a safe place for them to visit. Fie said: ?I am deeply touched that Jackie has taken the time to nominate me for this award. Ironically, without her commitment to the project the Make a Difference café would not have got off the ground. ?I feel she and everyone who has contributed to the cafe, should be nominated for an award as well! ?Despite being a lot of work, we have had tremendous fun working together on something that I hope will continue to benefit mental health patients in recovery for years to come.? The winning occupational therapist will win £1,000 in cash, plus £200 for the nominator, £2,500 for an installation of a Stannah stairlift in a venue of their choice, and tickets, travel and accommodation for two people to attend the College of Occupational Therapists? Annual Conference in Cardiff in June 2006.
