My time working in the MSK Outpatient Physiotherapy Department at University Hospital Sussex, under the leadership of Chris Mercer, has been one of the most enriching chapters of my career. As I prepare to close this chapter and move forward, I want to reflect on the profound learning, personal growth, and gratitude I carry from these two years.
A New Healthcare Landscape
Before joining the NHS, my physiotherapy career had been rooted in the French healthcare system. Across general and MSK/sport private practices in mainland France and Réunion Island, I worked with diverse demographics spanning all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. These experiences taught me adaptability and gave me an appreciation for the breadth of physiotherapy practice.
However, moving to the UK expanded my perspective in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Immersing myself in a new culture and navigating the NHS—a healthcare system with its own unique strengths and challenges—was an eye-opening experience. It required me to rethink my approach, confront my biases, and adapt to a different pace of care delivery.
Lessons in Leadership and Teamwork
Being neurodivergent, with traits of ASD, I have always struggled with letting go of control and perfectionism. Working within the NHS, where processes can sometimes feel slow or inefficient, challenged me to focus on what I could influence rather than what I couldn’t change.
This shift in mindset allowed me to develop critical leadership skills. I learned to embrace the diversity within my team, seeing the unique strengths each person brought to the table. I discovered the value of patience—not everything needs to be perfect the first time. What truly matters is creating an environment where people can learn from mistakes, reflect, and grow.
Chris Mercer’s leadership was a major source of inspiration. His ability to trust and empower his team, foster diversity, and provide opportunities for growth left a lasting impact on me. Through our discussions and supervisions, I learned not only about clinical reasoning, red flags, and safety-netting but also about how great leadership can bring out the best in people.
Growth as an Educator and Researcher
This experience also sharpened my skills in education and research. Supervising students in the 4:1 model, providing in-service trainings for colleagues, and presenting at conferences enriched my role as an educator. These experiences pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me refine my ability to share knowledge effectively.
On the research front, completing my MSc dissertation and working on publishing a peer-reviewed paper were significant milestones. These processes taught me the rigors of academic work and reinforced the importance of evidence-based practice in advancing our profession.
Finding My Path Forward
As fulfilling as this journey has been, I’ve come to a personal realization: my heart belongs to the tropics. Growing up in Mayotte and Réunion Island, surrounded by warm climates and coral reefs, shaped who I am. My seven-year adventure in France and the UK provided me with incredible opportunities to grow, but I now feel the pull to return to an environment where I thrive—one that aligns with my roots and nurtures my well-being.
Gratitude and Reflection
These two years have been incredibly prolific, filled with challenges, learning, and meaningful connections. I am deeply grateful to the Advanced Practitioners, consultants, researchers, and peers who supported and encouraged me along the way. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping me find my own path as a clinician and leader.
I also want to thank my new UK physiotherapy family for their warmth and support. You have inspired me to become not only a better physiotherapist but also a better person.
Taking the Next Step
This chapter may be ending, but the tools, skills, and memories I’ve gained will continue to shape my career. I leave with a stronger foundation in MSK physiotherapy, leadership, and collaboration, and I am excited to apply these in an environment where I feel at home.
To everyone who has been part of this journey—thank you. I look forward to the future with gratitude for the past and excitement for what lies ahead.
Clement
