Stories

Helen qualified as a physiotherapist in 2004 and started her career at Kings College Hospital in London completing her rotations and then initially specialising in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. In 2010 she started working with the Complex Trauma team at DMRC Headley Court treating a range of complex injuries, and developed an interest in the area of amputee rehabilitation.

She worked with injured military personnel at the height of the conflict in Afghanistan and assisted amputees of all levels in their prosthetic rehabilitation and return to varying levels of function. She became one of the Band 7 physiotherapists that led the complex trauma team and worked collaboratively with a large MDT to provide a holistic approach to rehabilitation.

She has a specific interest in teaching amputees how to run again and with a specialist team in this area developed a return to run criteria. She has also conducted research in collaboration with Bath University analysing amputee running gait following a period of rehabilitation. She has completed MSc modules at the University of Hertfordshire.

Since leaving the Ministry of Defence Helen started working with amputee clients at Proactive Prosthetics who are of varying ages and functional levels, providing rehabilitation and enabling them to achieve their goals. Helen has worked with individuals in various settings from the clinic, gym and community providing education, support and developing confidence to optimise their prosthetic rehabilitation.

Following a motorcycle accident as a young man, which resulted in a below-knee amputation, Jamie redirected his career towards prosthetics. He retrained and qualified as a prosthetist from the University of Salford in 2000, driven by a passion to support others facing similar challenges.

Jamie began his career in a busy NHS London centre, gaining invaluable clinical experience before seizing a unique opportunity to join a leading prosthetic manufacturing company in Iceland. This role saw him working extensively with R&D teams and clinical facilities across 29 countries, shaping innovation in prosthetic technology.

Since 2006, Jamie has been based in the UK, working in private practice within a multidisciplinary team. Alongside his clinical work, he has provided prosthetic expert witness services, offering specialist insights.

Jamie is now leading the development of our Cambridge clinic, an area historically underserved by private prosthetic services. The clinic opened in June 2025, and Jamie’s expertise and dedication will be at the heart of this exciting new chapter for Proactive.

Matthew Pizzey joined the team in November 2011. A mechanical engineer by trade, Matthew’s previous role included designing and drawing under floor heating systems. Matthew first became interested in the field of prosthetics through his father who works for leading manufacturer of prosthetics, Ottobock.

Since then his experience has grown and broadened to include all aspects of limb fabrication and construction. Supporting four prosthetists, he has the ability to produce work to a high standard in time-frames to suit the patients’ requirements.

Alfie joined Proactive in 2021 to support our growing team as a technician.

Alfie is tidy and organised which goes down well in the workshop which can get busy and chaotic at times! Alfie is the one who knows where that tool is or whether a part has arrived for the prosthesis being made.

Michaela joins us as Clinic Administrator with a wealth of experience in administration and facilities management.

Michaela is delightfully welcoming and incredibly efficient. All our patients needs and requests are never too much trouble.

Michaela has a background in facilities management and health and safety and she makes sure that our clinic facilities are all in good order and maintains a safe environment for patients, visitors and the team to work in.

Natalie is the Orthotic Clinical Lead and a Senior Prosthetist at Proactive Prosthetics. Qualified since 2013, she has developed extensive clinical experience, with a particular focus on lower-limb prosthetics and orthotics and the management of complex trauma cases.

Before joining Proactive in 2023, Natalie worked in Ireland at a busy centre in Galway, where she led a team of clinicians and supported a wide range of prosthetic and orthotic clients across a complex caseload. This combination of leadership and hands-on clinical practice has shaped her collaborative, patient-focused approach to care.

Natalie has a strong interest in biomechanics and gait analysis and particularly enjoys spending time with patients to understand their goals and what matters most to them. She takes a personalised, patient-centred approach, tailoring each treatment plan to support people in achieving outcomes that are meaningful to their everyday lives.

Outside of the clinic, Natalie enjoys being outdoors and can often be found running, hiking or paddleboarding. She brings the same warmth, enthusiasm and commitment into her clinical work, valuing strong relationships and working closely with patients as they move towards their individual goals.

Alan is a highly experienced prosthetist with over 20 years of clinical practice. As Clinical Director at Proactive, he oversees the clinical delivery across all clinics and leads the development of forward‑thinking pathways that keep Proactive at the forefront of prosthetics, orthotics, and rehabilitation.

Despite his senior leadership role, Alan remains a practising clinician, working closely with both upper‑ and lower‑limb patients. This hands‑on approach ensures his strategic decisions are grounded in real patient needs and everyday clinical realities.

For the past eight years, Alan has also provided expert witness services, offering clear, balanced, and authoritative clinical opinion in legal cases. His combination of leadership, innovation, and deep clinical expertise continues to drive high‑quality outcomes across the organisation.

With 15 years of clinical experience, Chris Law is a highly skilled Orthotist with experience in both the NHS and Private sectors, dedicated to delivering excellent personalised care to both adults and children.

Chris’s expertise covers a diverse range of specialisms from complex neurological disabilities to musculoskeletal conditions where he draws from his previous vocations in Sports Exercise Science and Strength and Conditioning.

Chris enjoys sport and fitness and is a keen rugby player/supporter and enjoys motorsport as well as being a keen car enthusiast.

Asad has a strong educational background, beginning his journey in this field began in Pakistan, gaining valuable experience as a Prosthetist/Orthotist, before moving to Europe where he further honed his skills and knowledge. In 2014, he made a significant move to the UK to continue his professional growth, including completion of his master’s degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics Sciences at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow.

Having now worked for many years within the UK private sector he has had access to cutting-edge technologies and collaborated with experts in the field across the country and overseas.

Asad has a keen interest in exploring the potential of microprocessor knees, microprocessor feet, and sporting devices. He enjoys staying abreast of the latest advancements in these areas and actively incorporating them into his practice to provide the most innovative and effective solutions for patients.

Beyond professional pursuits, Asad finds joy in spending time with family and nurturing his love for cricket. He would describe himself as approachable, positive and friendly.

Sally has over four years experience as a private clinic co-ordinator, with patient care and comfort at the heart of everything she does.

Sally is committed to providing a compassionate, supportive environment where patients & their families feel listened to, respected,welcome and at ease. Her daily goal is to deliver high-quality care while ensuring everyone feels confident and comfortable throughout their visit to the clinic.

Jack graduated from York St John University in 2013 with a BSc (Hons) degree in Physiotherapy and also has a Post Graduate Diploma in Advanced Physiotherapy Practice from Sheffield Hallam University.

His specialist is working with people who have suffered limb loss and has nearly ten years experience working with the NHS and the private sector. This includes working with people with upper and lower limb loss as well as working with adults and children of all abilities.

Jack’s passion is helping people get back to what they enjoy doing and reaching their goals by providing them with personalised rehabilitation to suit their needs.

Since achieving a first-class honours degree from Salford University Issy has worked in a mixture of public NHS and private clinics. Before joining Proactive she was a clinician at Crispin Orthotics specialising in scanning and designing 3D-printed custom orthosis.

Issy is passionate about the biomechanical element of being an Orthotist, using her technical skills to make custom orthotic devices that improve patients’ mobility and overall well-being which she finds incredibly rewarding. The satisfaction of seeing patients lead better lives keeps her motivated every day.

Outside of work, Issy enjoys both swimming and horse riding. She would describe herself as enthusiastic, industrious and understanding.

Born and raised in the coastal village of Abersoch, North Wales, Sioned Wakefield brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and innovation to her role as Clinic Manager at our new prosthetic clinic. After graduating from the University of Salford in 2010, Sioned began her career at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC) Headley Court, where she worked from 2010 to 2014, supporting military personnel with complex prosthetic needs.

She then returned to the North to join the Specialist Mobility Rehabilitation Centre (SMRC) in Preston, where she continued to develop her clinical expertise and reputation for patient-centred care. In August 2025, Sioned joined the Proactive Prosthetics team, bringing her unique blend of clinical excellence and creative problem-solving to help patients achieve their goals.

Sioned is known for her kind and friendly approach, always going the extra mile to ensure her patients feel supported and empowered. She thinks outside the box, tailoring solutions to each individual’s lifestyle and aspirations.

Outside of work, Sioned enjoys spending time with her beloved golden retrievers, exploring beaches and hills, paddleboarding, swimming, and attending concerts. Whether she’s in the gym or by the sea, she finds joy in movement and music—and brings that same energy and positivity into her clinical practice.

Fun fact- Sioned got the nickname ‘Ned’ when she joined the RNLI crew in Abersoch at 18 years old and it has stuck ever since, so feel free to call her Ned or Sioned, she really doesn’t mind!

Since graduating from the University of Salford in 2014, Alex has worked in Cambridge as an Orthotist, specialising in neurorehabilitation and scoliosis management. Before joining Proactive, she served as Clinic Manager for several large prosthetic and orthotic services across the East of England and the Midlands.

Alex is committed to delivering evidence-based care, combining fundamental principles of biomechanics with advanced technologies to optimise patient outcomes. She is enthusiastic about improving the quality of life for her patients, which is evident in her appointments through her positivity and empathetic nature. Her clinical expertise includes comprehensive gait analysis, spinal orthotic intervention, and the integration of digital workflows such as 3D scanning and additive manufacturing. She has a particular interest in complex neurological presentations and multidisciplinary rehabilitation planning.

Outside of work, Alex plays competitive netball, is mum to a lively 1 year old and enjoys exploring the countryside with her Labrador, Bruno

Ezgi graduated from Yeditepe University in 2015 with a degree in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation. She went on to complete a Master’s degree in the same field.

Ezgi spent eight and a half years working at Ottobock Türkiye, where she developed extensive experience in upper and lower limb amputee rehabilitation. Her clinical work also included rehabilitation of patients using microprocessor-controlled orthoses, functional electrical stimulation (FES) applications in individuals with upper motor neurone involvement, and multi-site TENS treatment for patients with spasticity.

Throughout her career, she has been invited to deliver lectures on amputee rehabilitation at various universities and to present at professional congresses. In addition, she has worked extensively with adolescents undergoing conservative scoliosis management, applying three-dimensional exercise-based treatment approaches and achieving successful outcomes in many patients with idiopathic scoliosis. She has also contributed to academic publications reflecting her ongoing commitment to evidence-based practice.

In 2025, Ezgi relocated to the UK, coinciding with Proactive opening its new Cambridge branch. She now continues to practise in the field she is most passionate about, amputee rehabilitation , supporting her patients with an evidence-based, compassionate approach and helping them regain confidence, independence and optimal mobility.

Ezgi is married and has a 3.5-year-old daughter. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new places, hiking in nature and enjoying baking and trying new sweet recipes. She also shares her home with her two cats, Lily and Leo.

Katy is a prosthetist with 13 years of experience, previously serving as Clinical Lead Prosthetist within the NHS, where she managed an experienced team and worked with a broad client demographic.

An active person herself, she values collaborative goal‑setting and is passionate about using both new and established technologies to find creative solutions that place each individual’s needs at the centre of their care.

Katy especially enjoys getting to know the people she works with, problem‑solving together, and seeing their progress over time, finding continuity of care both meaningful and rewarding.

Outside of work, she loves being outdoors; is a keen netballer; and enjoys time with friends. She describes herself as enthusiastic, empathetic, and calm.

Zi joined the Proactive Bristol Team in summer 2025, bringing with her a wealth of administrative experience, including working knowledge in private healthcare. She’s passionate about creating a welcoming and efficient environment for both patients and staff.

Outside of work, Zi enjoys staying active with weekly walks alongside friends and is always up for a live music event. A keen camper and people-person, Zi loves meeting new faces and has thoroughly enjoyed getting to know our patients. She is looking forward to supporting many more on their journey with us.

Jakub is a skilled prosthetic and orthotic technician who joined the Proactive Bristol team in 2024. With strong experience in both traditional craftsmanship and modern manufacturing, he brings extensive knowledge of materials, methods, and emerging technologies.

Passionate about innovative components that improve patient outcomes, Jakub is always exploring new solutions.

Outside the workshop, he enjoys cycling in his signature colourful socks, sewing creative projects, and taking part in local LGBTQ+ community events.

With over 19 years of clinical experience, Julie is a highly skilled Orthotist providing personalised, innovative care for adults and children. She specialises in complex neurological disabilities and musculoskeletal conditions and enjoys the creative problem‑solving involved in achieving the best outcomes for her clients.

Julie is committed to personalised care and uses advanced technologies, including 3D printing, to create effective, cutting‑edge orthotic solutions. Her work spans sports orthoses and other specialised devices designed to support participation and improve outcomes. A strong advocate for collaborative practice, she values working closely with clients, families and multidisciplinary teams to enhance independence and quality of life.

Outside work, she enjoys staying active, reading, and spending time with her extended family and friends.

Karl Stokes is a highly experienced prosthetist with 19 years in the field, having worked extensively across both orthotics and prosthetics before specialising in prosthetics.

In 2025, he joined the Proactive team in Bristol while pursuing his master’s degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics, further enhancing his clinical expertise.

Outside of work, Karl enjoys walking his dogs, tackling DIY projects, and restoring classic cars.

Werner Herbst is a highly accomplished Prosthetist and Orthotist at Proactive Prosthetics, offering nearly 30 years of clinical and managerial experience across the UK, Ireland, and South Africa. Throughout his distinguished career, Werner has held senior leadership roles within some of the most prestigious healthcare settings, including serving as the Centre Manager at Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton, where he oversaw the delivery of specialist prosthetics, orthotics, and special seating services.

His clinical expertise is broad and deep, specialising in lower limb prosthetics, lower limb orthotics, and advanced osseointegration prosthetics. Werner’s background is uniquely characterised by a blend of clinical excellence and strategic business acumen; he holds a Master of Business Administration from Oxford Brookes University alongside a Postgraduate Certificate in Rehabilitation Studies from the University of Strathclyde. His commitment to the highest professional standards is reflected in his HCPC and BAPO registrations, as well as his academic distinctions in Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics.

In addition to his clinical and managerial responsibilities, Werner is an experienced expert witness. Having completed the Bond Solon expert report writing course, he frequently undertakes medico-legal work, providing authoritative insights in both prosthetics and orthotics. Werner combines his decades of technical proficiency with a results-oriented approach, ensuring that every patient receives the specialised, high-quality care necessary to achieve their rehabilitation goals.

Connor joined Proactive in summer of 2024 as Clinic Coordinator at our Godalming site. Connor previously worked in a busy hotel as a restaurant manager before going to work in an independent coffee roastery, bringing a wide range of admin & people focused skills.

He decided to go back to college to study an Administration Diploma & found a place at Proactive. With a varied range of experience, Connor loves to meet and liaise with the patient’s, being the first face they see when they arrive &

Outside of work, Connor enjoys lots of long walks with his pug called Angelo, video gaming & trying delicious food and wine!

Sarah is a Team Lead Physiotherapist at Proactive in Godalming. She works at Proactive three days a week, and also works as a Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy at the University of Winchester.

Sarah qualified as a physiotherapist in 2003 from Oxford Brookes University and later completed a Master’s degree in Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy at the University of Brighton. She has worked in a wide range of settings, including the NHS and for the military, supporting the rehabilitation of injured service personnel.

Sarah has extensive experience helping people recover from complex and traumatic injuries, including amputations. She strongly believes in treating the whole person, taking a holistic approach to rehabilitation that supports both physical recovery and overall wellbeing.

Sarah’s favourite part of her job is seeing the progress her patients make and helping them return to the activities that matter most to them. She uses a variety of treatment approaches including exercise rehabilitation, manual therapy, and acupuncture.

Outside of work, Sarah keeps busy with her energetic son. She enjoys paddle boarding, reading, and is currently learning to jive.

Having previously worked as Clinical Lead at a busy London prosthetics service, Sophie also has 7 years of clinical experience in the NHS, including working with many new amputees at a specialist inpatient rehabilitation unit. This is where she developed a passion for building a strong relationship with each patient from the beginning and found it very rewarding to help an individual reach their potential.

Sophie understands the importance of a collaborative approach with both patient and the multi-disciplinary team to create new ideas and to truly understand a patient’s needs.

Sophie’s warm and approachable nature creates a foundation of trust to ensure each individual feels comfortable and confident in their treatment and journey ahead.

Andrew Reece is a Senior Prosthetist at Proactive Prosthetics, bringing over 20 years of clinical experience in lower limb prosthetics. Throughout his career he has worked within some of the UK’s leading prosthetic centres and healthcare settings, providing specialist care to individuals with complex limb loss. Andrew previously held the role of Clinical Lead Prosthetist at Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton, where he led a large multidisciplinary prosthetic team and managed complex inpatient and outpatient cases, including osseointegration.

His clinical expertise covers all aspects of lower limb prosthetics, including modern socket design and state-of-the-art component prescription. Andrew is experienced in managing complex traumatic amputations and is committed to delivering personalised, high-performance prosthetic care tailored to each individual’s goals.

Andrew’s passion for mobility extends beyond the clinic. He is an enthusiastic mountain biker, gravel rider and runner. His charitable endeavours reflect this commitment to active living — he climbed Mount Kilimanjaro alongside a group of amputees in support of the Limbless Association, has completed the Walk With The Wounded Cumbria Challenge, and recently ran his first half marathon at the Robin Hood Half Marathon in support of Run With Rich Charity.

Alan is an experienced prosthetist with a background in research, education, and advanced prosthetic technology, supporting patients through rehabilitation while helping develop innovative clinical practice.

Katy is a senior prosthetist and clinical manager specialising in prosthetic rehabilitation, supporting patients through their recovery while helping lead clinical practice across the service.

Jamie leads the Cambridge clinic while providing specialist prosthetic care, supporting patients through rehabilitation with tailored prosthetic solutions and coordinated care.

Asad is a clinical specialist prosthetist with international experience and a strong interest in advanced prosthetic technology, supporting patients through rehabilitation with innovative solutions.

Sioned combines clinical leadership with specialist prosthetic care, supporting patients through rehabilitation while helping lead multidisciplinary collaboration within the Manchester service.

Natalie is a dual-qualified prosthetist and orthotist with a strong interest in biomechanics and gait, supporting patients through rehabilitation to improve mobility and independence.