Spotlight on... Dr Paul Carreon, Specialist Research Physiotherapist

What is your job role?

As a specialist research physiotherapist at The Neurosciences Research Centre (NRC), I have the privilege of working alongside an incredible team, including our principal investigator Dr Rhys Davies and Huntington’s Disease (HD) consultant Dr Sundus Alusi, supported by Research Facilitator Jenni Burns. Together, we conduct the ENROLL-HD Registry Clinic, which is the world’s largest observational study focused on Huntington’s Disease (HD).

In addition to this, I contribute as a clinical rater for the Merz Pattern Spasticity study and serve as a sub-investigator, helping to recruit HD patients for various research initiatives, including the HEALTHE-RND project. This multinational effort is dedicated to creating tailored Quality of Life assessments and eHealth models for rare neurological conditions. My role is driven by a commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by HD, fostering understanding and support within this community.

 

What made you choose to do the job you are in?

My choice to work in this field is rooted in a deep passion for improving care and treatments for Huntington’s Disease and other rare neurological conditions. After completing my PhD on the illness narratives of people with HD, I gained invaluable insights into how clinicians can better support patients and their families. This understanding comes from nearly two decades of experience working with the HD community in Merseyside and the north west of England.

The Walton Centre stands out as the UK’s specialist hospital Trust dedicated to inclusive neurology and neurosurgery, fostering innovation in the neuroscience field. I found a perfect alignment here, as the organization champions personal growth and supports my career development. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities provided by The Walton Centre Charity and the NRC, particularly under the mentorship of Dr. Rhys Davies and Gemma Nanson. Together, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the communities we serve.

 

What is your favourite part of the job?

The favourite part of my job is the privilege of bridging my clinical experience with translational research. As an allied health professional, I value the opportunity to elevate our representation in research, and I’m grateful to be part of the NRC, where I can practice in this vital setting.

What truly brings me joy is collaborating with a small, dedicated team focused on improving patient care and research for those affected by Huntington’s Disease. Together, we share a common goal, and that sense of purpose is incredibly fulfilling.

I also have the chance to work with colleagues nationally and internationally, providing specialist training for the Huntington Disease Association Charity in England and Wales. I also help develop educational and training resources that promote the clinical guidelines established by our specialist group through the European Huntington’s Disease Network (EHDN), where I lead the workstream for HD physiotherapy working group in residential care settings.

 

What’s the most rewarding experience you have had in your role?

The most rewarding experience in my role comes at the end of each patient consultation, when individuals and their families express their gratitude for the work we do. One recent moment particularly stands out: a family member approached me and said, “Please don’t stop with what you’re doing. Thank you for helping us today and for the future.” Moments like these reaffirm the impact of our work and remind me that we are making a difference in people’s lives.

 

What is the best advice you have received at work?

The best advice I’ve received earlier in my career, came from a colleague who said, “Listen to your patients, and you will learn a lot.” This insight has stayed with me throughout the years, reinforcing my belief that our patients are our greatest teachers. Their experiences and stories guide us, reminding us of the profound effect we can have when we truly listen.

What/who is your biggest motivator at work?

My patients, they are at the heart of everything that I do.

 

What is on your bucket list for this year?

As 2024 comes to a close, I’m thrilled to have completed the Liverpool Half Marathon with my partner, running side by side and motivating each other to reach the finish line. Looking ahead to 2025, we really hope to visit Japan, a long-standing dream on our travel bucket list.