Memories of William by Claire, William's physiotherapist

William Doolin

I began working with William in March 2006, after he had undergone his surgery in London. William was then back at home and undergoing chemotherapy. Initially I was unsure what to expect and did not know how William would respond to us. However, he was keen to participate in everything we suggested despite suffering daily with the effects of chemotherapy, in particular the sickness. William was always cheerful and his love of Chelsea football club and The Simpsons soon became apparent.
As his physiotherapy progressed, William used a tricycle with us at his school, to help make the sessions more fun as well as strengthening his muscles. It was also an opportunity for some of his school friends to see William and showed us how popular he was. Despite obviously feeling very unwell on some days, William always had a go and he really enjoyed using the trike. His determination was also apparent in his walking as he was very keen to try crutches and not use his walking frame. He managed well with the crutches despite a few wobbles that seemed to scare me and his family much more than him!
He also participated in our hydrotherapy programme and my colleagues relayed to me on several occasions how much fun he had in the pool.
One of my clearest memories of William is running to keep up with him whilst he is pedalling on the trike, and him laughing as he speeds away! Another is the bravery and courage he showed, smiling at me from under one of his many Chelsea hats.