2006 Occupational Therapist of the Year
Michael Sharkey
Michael Sharkey, Senior 1 Occupational Therapist in Alcoholism Treatment at Brian Hore Unit, Withington Hospital, Manchester, was chosen as the winner of the award in 2006 by a panel of judges including consumer investigator and children’s rights campaigner, Esther Rantzen. He received his award from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at a prestigious awards ceremony in London on April 4th.
Michael runs a five-week intensive programme for alcoholism treatment, and was nominated by the award by a former patient, who credits the programme with putting her in control of her life after 40 years of problematic drinking. Before the starting the programme, she felt suicidal and unable to cope with the pressures of looking after her parents and her grandson, who is suffering from Leukaemia. Michael educated her on the effects of drinking and taught her anxiety management techniques and communication skills.
Read the April 5 2006 Press Release to find out more.
