A Story of an 80-Year-Old Dog Trainer and a "Mind MOT"

Six years ago, my clinic phone rang.

"Is this ExcelCare Physiotherapy and Acupuncture clinic? Can I talk with Gayeetree?" asked a sweet, elderly voice.

"Yes," I replied. "This is Gayatri."

"Can you treat hip joint pain?"

"Certainly."

A few days later, she limped into my clinic. After just a few physio sessions, she began walking without her limp. As she was booking her follow-up, she mentioned she couldn't come the following week because she had to attend dog training classes.

"How old is your dog?" I asked.

"I don't have a dog anymore," she smiled. "I've been a dog trainer for 65 years. Still haven't retired."

I nearly fell off my chair. An 80-year-old lady with sixty-five years of selfless, volunteer work under her belt. And that was just the beginning.

More Than a Physio Appointment

Over the next few months, I learned more about her incredible life. She had fostered over 120 children, rescued more than 40 dogs, and adopted and cared for a disabled boy for 21 year, all of it entirely voluntary.

Inspired by her passion, I actually got a dog myself! (I returned three weeks later, slightly in over my head, and she kindly helped me find the pup a more suitable home. )

She taught me more about life than any textbook ever could: the true meaning of selfless love, community spirit, and empathy.

One day, she arrived looking deeply upset. Her best friend had invited her out for coffee to talk about the issue, but she’d refused, saying, "I have a physio appointment with Gayeetree, and her encouragement is enough for me. I will be okay."

That day, she simply said, "Gayeetree, thank you."

In my mind, I thought, No... thank YOU for calling me all those years ago and asking for a physiotherapist.

The Body and Mind MOT

Even though her hip joint is perfectly fine now, she still comes in regularly. She calls her physio sessions a "body MOT" and meeting me a "mind MOT."

Truthfully, it is me who waits for her follow-up appointment. She will always have a cherished place in my Physio Diary.

Physio is not just about treating physical pain and injuries; it’s about people, their incredible journeys, and the emotional connections we make along the way.

Physio Gayatri