Imagine being chair bound because of hip pain, then having a hip operation and taking your first steps for months or maybe years. I think that moment is captured on the face of the woman in this image. Every nurse and physio has experienced the pleasure/joy/elation of a patient getting a new joint and walking for the first time.

I was able to capture this image because I knew what was going on. I fit in. I approached the surgeon and he put me in touch with a suitable patient that matched my ideas. It’s an old image so I don’t know if the woman is still alive, but I do know I was privileged to witness her first steps.

Helen Stone started her photographic career after graduating with a BA from Manchester Polytechnic. She is passionate about medical and social care, and has used experience gained as a nurse to develop a talent for working in delicate situations, often with people unused to being photographed. Her clients include charities and public sector organisations, as well as commercial and editorial clients. Helen is Editor of EPUK Weekly News.

Photographer since 1991, EPUK member since 2007.

See more work by Helen Stone