Hi, I’m Katie - founder of Bubble FLO® and, more importantly, a mum!  My journey as an innovator started not in a lab or a boardroom, but at home when my daughter was diagnosed with a lifelong respiratory condition.

When we were first told she would need twice-daily physiotherapy to help manage her condition, I assumed there would be plenty of engaging and effective devices available - especially for children.  But what we were given was pretty basic and didn’t spark interest for my daughter.  Physiotherapy is hard enough for kids without the added challenge of using something that feels intimidating or boring.

I couldn’t stop thinking: “There has to be something better.”  But after searching, I realised there wasn’t.  That’s when I thought - if the right device didn’t exist, why not create it?

From Idea to Innovation

Armed with determination, I set out to design a device that would make physiotherapy a more positive experience for children like my daughter.  I wanted something that was not only effective but also visually engaging and easy to use.

The early days were filled with sketches, research, and endless questions.  I worked closely with my daughter’s physiotherapists, who were incredibly supportive and provided invaluable feedback. The result? An innovative and effective prototype that made therapy sessions engaging and a lot more fun.

The response was overwhelming.  Physiotherapists quickly saw how beneficial it could be for other children, and I knew I had something worth sharing.  That’s how Bubble FLO® was born.

Making it Happen

Innovation isn’t a solo journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for the amazing support I’ve had along the way.  From working with Professor Gourlay and Dr. Simpson at Strathclyde University and Dr Kathryn Sharp, Glasgow Caledonian University, and NHS Team Lead in Paediatric physiotherapy, to develop and test the first prototype, to the encouragement from organisations like South of Scotland Enterprise and Innovate UK - every step has been a learning experience.

It’s been humbling to receive recognition too. Bubble FLO® has been:

• Nominated for Innovator of the Year at the Scottish Knowledge Award
• A Wild Card award winner at the Scottish EDGE
• Finalist for Business Women Scotland's Top 10 Entrepreneurs to Watch
• Finalist for Female Founder Scotland Awards Health category.

Why Bubble FLO® Matters

At the heart of all this is my daughter and the countless other children managing chronic lung conditions.  Physiotherapy is a daily reality for them, and it shouldn’t feel like a chore.  My hope is that Bubble FLO® can make a difference - turning those twice-daily therapy sessions into something a little brighter.

Being recognised for innovation is wonderful, but knowing that Bubble FLO® is helping children breathe easier? That’s what truly matters.

Thanks for reading, and if you’d like to learn more about Bubble FLO® and our journey, feel free to reach out or follow along - we’re just getting started!