Meet Our Wheelchair Specialists
John Fitzpatrick
Founder & Clinical Lead | Silver Fern TherapyWith over two decades of experience in wheelchair prescription and occupational therapy, I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise, hands-on technical skill, and a deep commitment to improving mobility outcomes for clients across the UK. My career began in 2002, shortly after completing an occupational therapy degree in New Zealand. I joined Seating To Go, a specialist wheelchair service, where I was immersed in a wide range of clinical presentations and mentored by an exceptionally experienced team. That early experience laid the foundation for my lifelong dedication to wheelchair provision. In 2004, I moved to the UK for what was meant to be a two-year working holiday. Two decades later, I’m still here—now based in South Wales with my wife and two daughters. I’ve held both clinical and sales roles throughout my career, including clinical leadership at NHS wheelchair services and as Area Sales Manager for Sunrise Medical. In 2018, I left Sunrise Medical to focus full-time on Silver Fern Therapy, a venture that began as a passion project and has grown into a respected clinical service. Our mission is simple: to ensure that wheelchair users receive the expert clinical input they deserve, from assessment through to handover and beyond. Outside of work, I stay active through running and cycling, and I proudly compete for Team GB’s age-group duathlon team. My two primary school-aged daughters keep me grounded, curious, and always on the move.
Michelle Re
Clinical Specialist: Posture and Mobility | Occupational Therapist With over two decades of experience in occupational therapy and wheelchair provision, I bring a deep clinical understanding and a passion for improving lives through thoughtful, personalised mobility solutions. I qualified in 1999 and my career took an international turn early on thanks to a pivotal friendship with a Canadian classmate. That connection led me to work in Canada, where I was introduced to specialist wheelchair provision for nursing home residents—an experience that shaped my clinical focus and ignited a lifelong interest in posture and mobility. After returning to Wales (and escaping the Canadian winters!), I joined the local posture and mobility service as a locum OT. I quickly progressed to a permanent role and eventually became the adult team lead. In 2005, I met John — who was covering my maternity leave — and we've worked together in various roles ever since. Following the birth of my second child, I ventured into sales, collaborating with tissue viability nurses and wheelchair services across the southwest. While the experience was invaluable, I missed the clinical side and returned to wheelchair services in Somerset. After five years in England, I’ve come full circle and now serve as a clinical specialist in the posture and mobility service in Wales. Outside of work, I’m a proud mum to two teenage daughters and a lively dog. We love beach walks, family time, and unwinding with a good Netflix series.
Louise Viner
Clinical Specialist: Posture and Mobility | Occupational TherapistI qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 2004, drawn to the physical side of healthcare but unsure where it would lead. That changed a few years later when I joined a wheelchair service and discovered my true calling in posture and mobility. Since then, I’ve built a career dedicated to helping people move better and live more comfortably. I’ve worked across the NHS, rehabilitation centres, manufacturing, and the charity sector—always focused on mobility and the transformative impact of well-prescribed equipment. Early in my career, I was fortunate to learn from brilliant mentors and attend specialist conferences, which laid the foundation for the clinical expertise I bring to my work today. Alongside my work for Silver Fern Therapy, I am Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedics and Spines at Great Ormond Street Hospital, where I support complex cases with tailored mobility solutions. Outside of work, I stay active through fitness and singing — and I’m constantly on the move thanks to my energetic toddler!
Rhys Llewellyn
Wheelchair Skills TrainerSince 2005, I have been dedicated to empowering wheelchair users through skills training, beginning as a volunteer with Back Up—a leading UK charity supporting people affected by spinal cord injury. In 2006, I began delivering wheelchair skills sessions across NHS spinal units and residential settings, helping individuals build confidence, independence, and mobility. Over the years, I’ve trained hundreds of new and experienced wheelchair users, ranging from children under 13 to adults in their 70s. My inclusive approach has supported people with additional sensory impairments, ensuring that every participant receives tailored, respectful, and effective guidance. I was proud to be the first wheelchair skills trainer to deliver sessions at all eleven of the UK’s spinal injury centres—a milestone recognized with Back Up’s prestigious Golden Caster Award. In 2015, I completed the Back Up Wheelchair Skills Training course accredited by the Open College Network, further deepening my professional foundation. I am also a fluent Welsh speaker.
