Leading independent provider of neurological physiotherapy & rehabilitation.
We provide a comprehensive neurological physiotherapy service.
Our neurological physiotherapy team treat a wide range of conditions.
By 1984, following the birth of her second child, Jean had developed optic neuritis. Concerns about multiple sclerosis (MS) began to surface. During a school trip with her class, Jean tripped while walking and her right foot had started to drag. Soon after, she began experiencing electric shock sensations down her back. On a family holiday in Florida, she struggled unusually with the heat and found her legs increasingly unsteady. After returning home, an NHS physiotherapist gently confirmed what Jean feared most: this could be MS.
In 1996, a private neurologist confirmed the diagnosis of relapsing/remitting MS, with lesions in her neck and spine. The decline was rapid. Jean soon needed a walking stick, then a zimmer frame, and eventually a wheelchair for longer outings. Her arms also began to weaken. A hospital stay brought a heart-wrenching moment when Jean wrote a final letter to her children, knowing she would very soon be unable to, and made the decision to retire from teaching at just 47 years old. By 2001, a specialist in London told her that she would eventually lose the use of both arms and legs completely. But Jean’s story didn’t stop there.
In 2012, Jean met Anita, founder of Burscough Neuro Physio, who visited her at home for an initial assessment. With Anita’s help, Jean stood up for the first time in months – a profoundly emotional moment. From then on, her treatment was taken over by Monika, one of our experienced neuro physiotherapists, who still sees Jean regularly today at our Ormskirk clinic.
Jean admits she found the transition daunting. The sessions were hands-on, intensive, and unlike anything she had experienced before. But over time, she began to feel real benefits. Instead of being hunched over, she could sit taller, lift her chest and head, breathe better, and speak more clearly. Despite her consultant’s prediction eventually becoming a reality, Jean has maintained this progress and continues to live with dignity, strength, and optimism.
Jean’s life outside the clinic is just as remarkable. In 2012, her husband Geoff – then a local councillor – became Mayor of St Helens, and Jean served as Mayoress. Her very first duty was a daunting one: meeting the Queen at Liverpool’s Albert Dock. Jean was worried she wouldn’t be able to shake hands, but Her Majesty simply took Jean’s hands and gave them a warm squeeze. Over the next year, Jean embraced her role fully, attending schools, businesses, and community events almost daily.
In 2015, Jean published her book The Mayoress with MS – a heartfelt, warts-and-all account of her year in office, with all profits donated to MS Society St Helens. Since 2016, she has proudly served as president of the St Helens branch of the MS Society, continuing to support and uplift others living with MS.
Jean and Geoff have also made history together. In a rare and deeply meaningful honour, they became the first husband and wife to both receive Royal Maundy Money, awarded for their service to the church and community. Geoff received his in 2022 from Prince Charles, as he was still known at the time. Then in 2025, Jean received hers from the now King Charles III at Durham Cathedral – a challenging trip given her condition, but one she described as “absolutely worth it!” Maundy Money is a centuries-old royal tradition in which the monarch distributes specially minted coins to selected individuals in recognition of their outstanding Christian service and contribution to society. It is a significant honour and testament to the impact both Jean and Geoff have made in their community.
Jean’s daily life is supported by her devoted husband Geoff, a morning and evening PA, and her wonderful carer Laura, who has been with her for over four years and accompanies her to every physio session.
When asked what advice she would give to others in a similar position, Jean doesn’t hesitate:
“Find yourself a great physio – it will change your life! Keep smiling. You could sit around and cry, but it wouldn’t change anything.”
Jean’s infectious positivity and resilience make her an inspiration to everyone who meets her. We are honoured to play a part in her journey, and we love seeing her every week at the clinic. Her story is a testament to what expert care, determination, and a positive outlook can achieve.
Very friendly, professional and above all knowledgeable team. I would definitely recommend this team to stroke victims and their families.
Mrs W father with right sided stroke
Mike sustained a severe head injury which left him with mobility and co-ordination problems. As Mikes wife, it is difficult for me to express how valuable this neuro physiotherapy service is to us both. Mikes quality of life is greatly enhanced by the physios efforts with him each week (thanks for everything).
Mrs M, Mikes wife, about Mike aged 52
The physiotherapy sessions my mother has had from Burscough Physiotherapy following a stroke last year have improved her movements beyond anything we could have expected. The care attention and treatment she has received from the physiotherapists dealing with her have been second to none. I would have no hesitation in recommending Burscough Physiotherapy to anyone in need of their services, they are excellent in every way.
Mrs B
I have found all the physiotherapists who come to my home approachable and helpful. They always take the time to listen and advise. Having the same therapists also helps as they have built up a good relationship with my son
Mrs P whose son is being treated at home, following a severe head injury
May I once again thank you and your physios for all the work put in on my mum and the wonderful improvement made, not just physically but to her mental wellbeing as well. The girls have worked wonders and she and I can not thank you enough.
Mrs Hughes at 86 after suffering a dense Left sided stroke
Kind and caring physiotherapists who give their best to improve the lives of their patients…I am impressed by the encouragement given to P throughout each session and also for the explanation of what the exercises are hoping to achieve.
Mrs C whose husband has had a right sided stroke
