Stroke News For everyone affected by stroke - Behind the scenes of our first TV campaign - Stroke Association
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Stroke News
Spring 2019
For everyone affected by stroke
This issue:
• Getting into golf
• Make May Purple
• NHS Long Term Plan
• UK Stroke Assembly
Spotlight on stroke
Behind the scenes of
our first TV campaign
Contents
Features Guidance
8 Spotlight on stroke 14 Coping with anger
Meet the stroke after stroke
survivors behind our
28 Combating loneliness
Indoor / Outdoor Power Chair
first TV campaign
42 Money matters
16 Making a change
Help us to campaign
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• VERSATILE Sarah shares her Step to stroke.org.uk/strokenews to:
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• Subscribe to three editions
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Dr Corlett talks about • Change your preferences
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Neuron – Muscular Dystrophy/Atrophy and
all degenerative conditions such as A.L.S • Unsubscribe.
Editor Christine Webster
Design fullyfledgeddesign.com
Manual or Powered Wheelchairs - All
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Tel: 0800 280 0735 or 07766463340 Anytime Advertising Redactive Media Group. Contact 020 7880 7668.
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3
brochure or home assessment
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Over to you
I had my stroke three years ago,
a brain bleed on my right side. It I think being a very positive-
Editor’s letter affected my left side, especially
my leg from my hip down.
minded person has helped me
enormously, in both my recovery
period and in my post-stroke life.
I recovered quickly thanks to
Welcome to your spring edition You can find out more about this
prompt medical treatment, I know I’m not 100% who I was,
of Stroke News! on page 7. And meet one of its
and was in hospital for 17 days. I still have some balance issues.
stars (pictured above), as well as
This all happened on the eve But I’ve been fortunate enough
What do you think of our new our director, on pages 8 and 11.
of my 60th birthday and to recover to the extent that
look? We want to put stroke
meant the cancellation of people are surprised when I
on the map and transform the Also, find out how golf is helping
two surprise parties! tell them.
support we give and receive. John with his recovery (page 24)
So, as a charity, we’ve been and why Sarah is joining her local
My stroke was caused by high
working with the stroke Step Out for Stroke (page 32).
blood pressure, so I’m on Of course, I dread that it may
community to refresh our brand
medication now and receive happen again, but I won’t live
– from our logo to our values.
regular checks from my my life in fear either. Down
supportive local GPs. I also play with stroke I say, and keep
It’s great to be finally sharing it
Walking Football once a week positive people.
with you and we’d love to hear
and thoroughly recommend it to
your thoughts. What works well?
anybody over 40, as it’s great fun. Mike McLoughlin
How can we improve? Get in
touch and let us know.
I hope you Stroke Helpline: 0303 3033 100
Alongside our refresh, we’re enjoy this issue. Find your local services, clubs and groups: stroke.org.uk/support
launching our first-ever TV Join our online community: mystrokeguide.com
Christine Webster, Editor
campaign, Rebuilding Lives. Find information about stroke: stroke.org.uk/publications
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided in this magazine is accurate, but we cannot guarantee accuracy
and the information provided does not constitute legal or other professional advice. Opinions expressed in this magazine are
not always to be taken as the opinions of the Stroke Association. Advertisements, products or services listed are not necessarily
Do you have something to share? Write to us:
recommended by the Stroke Association. Stroke News is printed on paper from sustainable sources.
The Stroke Association is registered as a charity in England and Wales (No 211015) and in Scotland (SC037789). Stroke News, 240 City Road, London, EC1V 2PR
Also registered in Northern Ireland (XT33805), Isle of Man (No 945) and Jersey (NPO 369).
or email strokenews@stroke.org.uk
4 5
From our
INTEREST FREE
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01559 It’s an exciting time for our charity We’re now supporting regional
384097 and the wider stroke community. health leaders to prioritise stroke
We started 2019 with the launch locally (see page 16). And we’re
of NHS England’s Long Term actively shaping the national
Plan, which formally recognised stroke programme. We will give
stroke as a priority condition. This you more information about this
is fantastic news and the result in the next issue.
of a lot of hard work by thousands
of people, including our Stroke We’re also really excited to be
News readers. shining a spotlight on stroke
through our new Rebuilding Lives
The plan focuses as much campaign (see page 8). By raising
on improving rehabilitation awareness of the impact of stroke
and long-term support as through stroke survivors’ own
prevention and treatment. voices, we hope to inspire more
This is an important step as people to take action and join our
after-care is something we growing community. Visit stroke.
know is a priority for people org.uk to find out how you can help.
affected by stroke.
Juliet Bouverie
7
Spotlight on stroke
“Everyone needs to be aware that stroke can
hit anybody at any time - believe me.”
Baz Kelly has come far since a topsy-turvy. My leg shot up in
stroke 27 years ago took away his the air. I was being sick. My room-
speech, part of his vision and his mates came flying in, but I could
mobility. Now 54 years old and a hardly see them. They threw me
proud father of two, Baz is one of in a taxi and took me straight
the stars of our new Rebuilding to hospital.
Lives campaign to change the
way people think about stroke. “I woke up on the ward with
everything spinning. A clot in
In our first-ever TV campaign, Baz my brain had destroyed the right
and fellow stroke survivors Alisha, side of my body. My vision was
Max, Paul, Luna and Erin all tell bad and my speech was gone. I
their stories in their own words. couldn’t get out of the wheelchair.
Unscripted and unfiltered, they I remember the doctor saying,
show how stroke changes lives in ‘If I was you, I’d learn to write with
an instant. Shutting down part of your left hand’. I was devastated.
the brain. And part of you.
“When I heard about Rebuilding “For months afterwards I felt
Lives, I was keen to get involved,” horrible. I wanted to die. I still
says Baz. “I had a stroke in 1992, get upset when I think about it.
11 days after my 32nd birthday. I Stroke is awful, I wouldn’t wish
rolled over in bed and felt a sharp it on my worst enemy.”
pain in my head. Everything went
8 9
Baz with his family
Meet our
director
Film-maker Lotje Sodderland
(‘My Beautiful Broken Brain’;
‘Can You Rebuild My Brain?’)
tells us what the Rebuilding
But crucially, while Baz and and Spanish - articulating words Lives campaign means
his co-stars know only too well in different languages was good to her.
the impact stroke can have on physio for my mouth and tongue.
who you are, they’re also living
proof that life after stroke is “I’m one of the lucky ones to
possible. Recovery is tough recover the way I have. A person Why did you want surrounding both the causes
but with support, courage from the outside looking in would to get involved? and the effects of stroke,
and determination, the brain think, ‘No chance this guy’s had a As a stroke survivor with residual, including the fact that it can
can adapt. stroke’. But when I explain it hidden disabilities, I am thrilled happen to anyone at any age, and
to them, they get it. to direct this film. I’ve wanted the results are often devastating.
“The work it took me to get to get involved with the Stroke There are many stroke survivors
to the position I’m in now “I think a campaign like this Association ever since I first heard struggling, but you can’t see
is unbelievable,” says Baz. with a wide range of people, about their work following my what they are going through
“Recovery was slow and single- from youngsters to old age, is brain haemorrhage. Working as the residual conditions are
minded. I’d bounce a ball against really important. People need on this TV campaign is beyond often invisible.
a wall for ages to rebuild strength to understand more about this exciting because the message
in my arm. I took up Japanese condition. And that there is hope.” we’re putting out will reach a
My goal is to increase a sense of
very broad audience.
compassion and patience among
We want everyone to know that we’re here to support the public. And to educate people
Why do you think
people to rebuild their lives after stroke. Look out for about the experience of surviving
a campaign about
our campaign on Channel 4’s network from 26 April. a stroke and what it is to live with
stroke is important?
Find out more on stroke.org.uk. brain damage.
There is a lot of mystery
10 11
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More people survive a stroke today
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It’s a series of short, manageable therapy sessions that can be done
at home on your laptop, tablet or 4G phone. With a video of each
exercise, a repetition counter and feedback tools, it’s a simple,
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Just look at these benefits:
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www.stroke.today/strokenews www.stroke.today/strokenews
Coping with anger
After a stroke, you might find you feel angry more often
Here are some tips to help you:
about things that wouldn’t usually make you feel that way.
• Listen. People often lash out
Or you might have less control of your temper. Subtitle 16pt
when they feel ignored or
This Issue highlights:
• Life After Stroke Awards
out of control. Involve them
• Shaping stroke research
Anger and aggression can • Learn your triggers. Talk to This is 14pt lead-in
in decisions and lettext
them ...
• Money Matters
have a big impact on your health, friends and family to work Online
knowbenefits
you’re there calculators
to help.
• Get involved
recovery and those around you, out what makes you angry • Be patient. Allow time for
such as turn2us.org.uk can
so it’s important to process so you can act before things them to carry out tasks or
your feelings. get too heated. also help youtoto
to respond you.check which
• Write down your thoughts. benefits youyourself.
• Look after may entitled
Having ato. Online benefits calculators such
Laura Read from our Stroke This can help you to process stroke doesn’t give anyone as turn2us.org.uk can also help
Helpline shares some advice. how you’re feeling and why. Online benefits
the right calculators
to hurt you. If yousuch you to check which benefits you
• Find a safe way to let out your as turn2us.org.uk
feel drawn intocan also help
an angry may be entitled to.
How can I manage anger. Do something physical, youencounter,
to check which benefits you
walk away
my anger? like walking or a chair-based may orbe entitled
explain to.you feel
that
Don’t be too hard on yourself. exercise, or find a relaxation frightened or upset.
Anger is a normal part of recovery technique that works for you. What is Carer’s Allowance? It’s not means tested, and you
– a sign you recognise things If Getting
you providehelpregular
from care for can qualify if you’re in or out of
have changed and are trying How can family and someone with a disability for
a professional work. If you’re eligible, you could
For more advice, visit
to work through them. friends help? atWhether
least 35 hours
you’reper week, you
a stroke currently get £64.60 a week.
stroke.org.uk/emotions
Anger and aggression is often could be entitled
survivor or carer,tospeak
claimtoCarer’s Online benefits calculators such
or visit mystrokeguide.com.
If you’re struggling with anger, directed at carers and loved ones. Allowance. Youneed
your GP if you don’tmore
need to be as turn2us.org.uk can also help
here are some ways to help It’s easy to be hurt by words or related
support.to the
They person, or live
can refer youin the you toTelephone
check which benefits you
you regain control: actions, but remember that the same property.to help you to
to a therapist may beCall
entitled
our Stroke
to. Helpline
anger they’re feeling is a side- develop ways of coping with on 0303 3033 100.
effect of stroke, and isn’t personal. your thoughts and feelings.
14 15
Stroke survivor and ambassador
Amber Garland added: “I’m so Take action to improve the
proud of what we’ve achieved. lives of stroke survivors and
By involving stroke survivors their families in your area. Email
and sharing experiences, we’re campaigns@stroke.org.uk to
making a real difference!” find out more.
But this isn’t the end of the story. Karen Pritchard has been
involved in the campaign for a
Our next step is to make sure new national stroke plan from the
that the Long Term Plan is start. “Being part of something
implemented locally. that means so much to me has
been incredible,” she said. “It’s
We’re looking for people affected easy when you have had a life-
Making a change by stroke to work with our staff
campaigners and others in their
stroke community to push local
changing event to become lost
and demotivated. That’s why it’s
so important that stroke care is
decision-makers to ensure that top of the agenda.
In January, NHS England produced its new Long Term Plan,
the plan becomes a reality. This
outlining its priorities for the next 10 years. And the great could include organising petitions, “Everyone, wherever they live,
news is that stroke is now named as a national priority. meeting your local councillors or deserves the opportunity to live
talking to clinical staff. How you the best life they can and I believe
The plan sets out key aims for “We campaigned. We ensured campaign is up to you and your this Long Term Plan will give
improving stroke treatment the stroke community was fellow campaigners. survivors exactly that.”
and care including: given a voice. And together
we achieved the Long Term Plan,”
• Making thrombectomy (game- said carer and campaigner Julie Have your say
changing clot removal surgery) Payton. “This means a
What three things would you change about stroke care in your area?
available to ten times more new generation of stroke care,
patients by 2022. better support for families Wherever you are in the UK, we would love to hear your views.
• Improving stroke rehabilitation and carers, and increased Email our Campaigns Team at campaigns@stroke.org.uk or write to
so people receive better after- research to improve the lives
Jess Rich, Stroke Association House, 240 City Road, London, EC1 2PR.
care when they leave hospital. of stroke survivors.”
16 17
Campaigning
across the UK
Scotland
Volunteers and Stroke Ambassadors are vital in helping
us to campaign on behalf of stroke survivors and raise
awareness about stroke in Scotland. They’ve run blood
pressure checking events at the Scottish Parliament. And
been involved in the Cross Party Group on Heart Disease
and Stroke’s inquiries into high blood pressure and atrial
fibrillation – two of the biggest risk factors for stroke.
We recently put out a call to all those interested
in campaigning (see Ruth’s story on page 30). The
more campaigners we have, the stronger we will be.
Wales
Join us and help to improve stroke treatment and care. Local campaigners have been
essential in challenging and
changing decisions to cut important local services.
Northern Ireland If you’re keen to get involved but not sure where to
start, we’ve developed toolkits and training to help.
We’ve been working with the stroke community on
Visit stroke.org.uk/speakout.
proposals to improve stroke services in Northern Ireland.
And our recent ‘Struggling to Recover’ report gained
Our Community Steps programme (see page 24)
a commitment from statutory services to improve
also supports stroke survivors and local volunteers
long-term support.
to get involved in campaigning, so please get in touch.
A public consultation on reshaping stroke services is
Become a campaigner and make change happen in your nation: email
currently underway – please get involved in this significant
campaigns@stroke.org.uk or visit stroke.org.uk/campaigning.
opportunity to change stroke services for the better.
18 19To find out more and
book your place visit
stroke.org.uk/uksa19.
Stroke Ambassador, Dennis
Sharing ideas
Hill, shares his experiences
“It was great to meet other stroke
and experiences survivors and to share ideas,” said
Dennis. “I also had the opportunity
to learn more about My Stroke
As the Chair of the North East Worcestershire Stroke Group, Guide and how to use it.”
stroke survivor Dennis Hill had heard a lot about our UK
While he was there, Dennis also
Stroke Assemblies over the years. So in 2018, he and his
met people who were looking for
wife, Lesley, decided to attend the event in Manchester a stroke group to join in Worcester.
to see for themselves. Afterwards, he invited them to visit
the North Worcestershire Stroke
“I’ve been a volunteer and a Our Stroke Assemblies are Group. For many that attend an
Stroke Ambassador for many the largest gathering of stroke Assembly event, meeting others
years now, but I’d never been survivors in the UK. They’re an and sharing experiences and
to a Stroke Assembly before,” excellent opportunity for everyone achievements is a great benefit
said Dennis. “I wanted to know affected by stroke, including and inspires them in their own
what went on. Others from our carers and family members, to long-term recovery.
stroke group had been and said understand more about stroke,
how great it was, so I was keen have your say on stroke care and
to attend. I was particularly find out about organisations
Join us this year at a UK Stroke Assembly near you:
interested in finding out more and services that can help with UK Stroke Assembly Central UK Stroke Assembly Wales
about new developments in recovery. You can also find out Monday 1 - Tuesday 2 July Autumn 2019
stroke after-care, both for myself how you can get involved with Radisson Blu Hotel, Venue TBC
and to share with our group.” campaigns and research. East Midlands Airport
20 21Making May
purple for Harry
After a dramatic childbirth, Emma Winwood’s worst fears
were realised when her new-born son, Harry, stopped
breathing and had to be revived several times. Doctors later
discovered that Harry had had a stroke.
“We wanted to take part in Make to do it, have fun with it and most
“It was all such a whirlwind,” May Purple to make people aware importantly raise awareness.
said Emma. “We were in shock – that stroke can happen to younger It’s really important for people
how can a baby have a stroke? people and babies, so if they see to know more about the signs
It’s unheard of, or so we thought. someone having a stroke, they and symptoms of stroke.”
It was the best day and the know what to do. We did a raffle
worst day of our lives.” at our work. We dressed up in
purple and put purple accessories
Despite his early struggles, on. It was really good therapy for
Harry, now two, has made both of us. Just talking about our
a good recovery and attends experiences really helped.”
regular physiotherapy A year after Harry was born,
sessions to aid his mobility. Emma’s best friend, Amelia, With the support their friends and
also had a transient ischaemic family, Emma and Amelia raised
“The doctors can’t believe how attack or TIA (sometimes called £1,395. Emma’s husband, Luke,
well he is. He has a weakness a mini-stroke), aged 26. also raised £2,500 by climbing
on his right side. His leg’s not Mount Snowdon. Have fun and raise awareness
too badly affected, but because “Amelia realised she was having of stroke by making May
he can’t use his right arm he has a stroke because of Harry. I’d Emma’s advice to anyone thinking purple in your community.
adapted to using his left side. been investigating stroke and of taking part this year? “Do it! We Get started by downloading
He’s such a determined little telling her about it. So when thought it was great dressing up your fundraising pack:
boy and figures out everything she felt her face droop, she and just being silly for the whole stroke.org.uk/may19.
for himself.” knew to call an ambulance. month. I would encourage anyone
22 23Back in the
swing of things
After the shock of a stroke, “It’s not just about hitting the
rebuilding your life again is ball - John felt self-conscious
about going to the club to
challenging. So last year,
meet friends because of his
we launched Community speech difficulties.
Steps in Wales to support
stroke survivors and carers “Since he joined the Community
to get back out into Steps golfing sessions, his
their communities. confidence has improved
so much. His consultant is
astonished at how well John has
This four-year project, sponsored “Also it’s about being with other
recovered. His brain scan showed
by the Big Lottery Fund, aims to people who understand. When I
huge amounts of damage and
help people feel less isolated and meet with people who are finding
he wasn’t expected to be able
boost their wellbeing by helping things hard after a stroke, I want
to walk again, or regain so
them to access local facilities and electrician and keen golfer until to see what I can do to help them.”
much speech.”
activities including golf, painting, a stroke affected his speech
sailing and bowls. and mobility in 2017. Dylan Williams, PGA Director
John added: “Going to the golf of Golf at Pyle and Kenfig Golf
John Manning, 66, from “After his stroke, John couldn’t sessions is fantastic. I didn’t think Club in Bridgend, is one of the
Abergele, recently joined one return to work and didn’t feel I would ever play again, but the golfing professionals involved
of our Return to Golf sessions at like he could ever play golf pro has been great and now I go in delivering the sessions for
his local course. John was a busy again,” said his wife, Anne. back to my old club. stroke survivors.
24 25ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY TO KEEP YOU ON THE MOVE
“I’ve learned so much working
with this group,” said Dylan. “Everyone has found a way -
THERA-Trainer
“Everyone who attends is dealing
with different issues due to their
it’s been so rewarding for all
of us to see the progress, and
EXERCISE BIKES
stroke. Some struggle with the determination in the group. ACTIVE / PASSIVE
vision and many with balance, Other players could learn a lot
so we’ve worked hard on building from them.” WHY
up a golf swing that people THERA-Trainer?
are comfortable with. Regular exercise at home is
encouraged to help maintain and
improve muscle tone, circulation
and flexibility, decrease fluid
retention and increase
stamina levels - all vital
Dylan’s top tips for for anyone with limited
mobility.
golfing after stroke: CHOOSE
THE RIGHT EXERCISE
• Try clubs of different bike to suit both your
lengths and weights.
need and budget from
our range of THERA
• Use thicker club grips trainers.
for a more secure hold. HIRE
• Get a brightly coloured ball PLAN
if you’re vision impaired. AVAILABLE
• Wear a grip glove on your
weaker hand and strap it onto
the club to help your swing.
• Attach a ball picker to the
putter to lift the ball out
of the hole.
MOBI TIGO TIGO TIGO
Learn more about Stroke Community Steps: stroke.org.uk/
540 530 558 510
communitysteps. Find out about local clubs and groups in
your area by visiting stroke.org.uk/clubs.
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26
or email info@medicotech.co.uk MEDICOTECHCombating loneliness
Coping with the effects of stroke can be a lonely experience.
Perhaps you don’t see or talk to people as often as you’d
like because you feel less confident since your stroke?
Or maybe you have people around you, but feel like they
don’t understand what you’re going through?
There are lots of things you can
do to help tackle loneliness. Here
are some ideas to get you started:
Join a peer support group –
Talking to others who understand
what you’re going through can
help you to feel less alone. We
have lots of supportive, friendly
clubs, groups and befriending
services. Visit stroke.org.uk/clubs Take up a hobby – Hobbies and
to find one near you. You can also interests are an important part
chat to people affected by stroke of life after stroke and can help people in your own time. Volunteer – Meet new people,
online at mystrokeguide.com. to improve your confidence. Or you could try a quietly build your confidence, develop
You could return to, or adapt, communal activity, like going to existing skills and learn new ones.
Phone a friend – Sometimes an activity you enjoyed before. the cinema, theatre or library. If you’d like to volunteer for us,
people will assume that you’re not Or why not try something new? visit stroke.org.uk/volunteering.
up for visitors unless you tell them Contact your library, council or
otherwise. If you’d like company, If you find new people or leisure centre to find out about
If you need more information
don’t be afraid to phone up a friend situations daunting, work up activities near you. Your GP or
or support, contact our Stroke
or family member for a chat. Or to it slowly. For example, try nurse can also refer you to local
Helpline on 0303 3033 100 or
invite them over for a cuppa. Often an activity-focused class, where community groups, befrienders,
email helpline@stroke.org.uk.
people are just waiting to be asked. you can build up to talking to events or learning opportunities.
28 29Ruth’s recovery
Like many stroke survivors, 33-year-old Ruth Hector
from Stirling struggled with her mental health without
much support.
After a life-long heart condition depressant, but it was a lifeline. Moving Forward After Stroke in Scotland as it’s something
caused a blood clot in her brain, I felt a lot better in a couple of days. programme. “We did exercises, I’m passionate about.
Ruth was given a thrombectomy - “If you’re feeling the same way, then talked about healthy living.
a procedure that can greatly get help. See your GP, go to your This wasn’t the reason I had the
reduce the effects of stroke. She hospital’s mental health unit strokes. But it’s why a lot of people “I want to talk to people
made a speedy recovery and or ring 111. Do what you can to do, so it’s useful. I used it as an about preventing strokes and
returned home a few weeks later. survive. Don’t give up – it does opportunity to chat to other stroke continue campaigning about
“But that’s when my mental get better. Think: ‘This is the way survivors and got a lot out of it. thrombectomy. We don’t have
health started to decline,” she I feel, but it’s not forever. It’s the it at the moment in Scotland
said. “I turned from the bubbly stroke affecting my emotions’.” “On the whole, I’ve done well and I know how much it can help
person I’d always been, to at getting better. I go for long people to recover. Mental health
wanting to kill myself. At the time, Just as she was starting to feel like walks every day as part of my is also a big thing for me. People
I thought it was for no reason, but herself again, Ruth had another recovery and I’m off the anti- need to know who they can
it was caused by my stroke. stroke. “This time I couldn’t get a depressants now. I volunteered speak to if things go wrong
thrombectomy. My recovery was to become a Stroke Ambassador after their stroke.”
“I realised I desperately needed a lot slower. I had to have more at the 2018 UK Stroke Assembly
help and dialled 111 for NHS speech and language therapy
support. They told me to go to and physio for drop foot.”
For information about emotional changes after stroke call our
Forth Valley Hospital mental
Helpline or visit stroke.org.uk/emotion. Find out how you can
health unit. It took them a few It was Ruth’s physiotherapist who
become a Stroke Ambassador at stroke.org.uk/ambassador.
days to put me on the right anti- referred her to the Forth Valley
30 31One step at a time
Sarah Harbron was 29 when she was paralysed by a stroke.
Three years on, she’s celebrating her progress by taking on
her third Step Out for Stroke.
One Sunday in December 2015, Sarah was put into an induced
Sarah felt so ill she couldn’t get coma. When she woke, she
out of bed. was paralysed and unable to
speak. She spent eight months
in hospital re-learning how to
“I was really tired and didn’t
do everything for herself.
feel like myself,” she recalled.
“My mum saw my face had
“When I was discharged, I was
dropped and called 999.
using my wheelchair. Now I can
My limbs were lifeless and
walk with a stick. The Stroke
I couldn’t speak.”
Association visited me and their
support was invaluable. I lost my
But half an hour later, Sarah’s job as a civil servant as a result
symptoms had vanished, and of my stroke, and they supported
after a few tests, she was sent me with advice about finance.”
home. A few days later, she was
getting ready to go out when Keen to challenge herself, Sarah
she collapsed. took part in her local Step Out
for Stroke in 2017 and every year
“I couldn’t move. I had to drag since. “Walking the one mile
Join your local Step Out for Stroke this spring. Our routes are accessible
myself along the floor to call an route was a challenge but worth
and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. So whether you’re walking
ambulance. By the time it arrived, it to prove how far I’ve come with
or wheeling, going as a group or setting yourself a challenge, you’ll be
my symptoms had gone. Three my recovery,” said Sarah. “I want
supporting others affected by stroke.
hours later my face drooped again. to raise awareness and vital funds
I deteriorated in hospital and was to help others affected by stroke Visit stroke.org.uk/step, email stepout@stroke.org.uk
told I’d had a brain stem stroke.” to get the support they need.” or call 0300 330 0740 to find a walk near you.
Image: ©Teeside Live
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*Service available with surgeries using EPS in England only and if your surgery needs you to order directly, we’ll tell you how to do this.Marathon motivation
Before a stroke changed his life in 2016, Dale Biggerstaff
from Belfast was a local marathon-running legend. He’s
now working hard to rebuild his fitness, while encouraging
fellow runners to fundraise for people affected by stroke.
Dale’s stroke was caused by When the Stroke Association
a bleed in his brain. “I felt off- became a charity partner of the
balance and had a banging 2019 Belfast City Marathon, Dale,
headache,” he said. “Then I lost who’d completed the race six
power in my left hand and was times, got involved by mentoring
slurring my words. My wife, and motivating members of his
Kathy, got help quickly and running club to join #TeamStroke.
probably saved my life.
“There’s no denying I miss running.
“The impact of the stroke has But meeting up with my running
Dale’s top running tips:
been huge – both physically and mates and motivating them to • Pacing – It’s important to get
emotionally. I went from being run for the Stroke Association has your pacing right so you can
a super-fit, busy dad with my been great. It’s helped me to focus keep going. If you’re taking part
own business, to re-learning on getting ready to run again in a in a longer race, run beside an
how to walk. relay team - something I thought official pacer.
I wouldn’t be able to do after my • Hydration – Drink plenty
“At 42, it was a huge shock. stroke but I’m determined to try. in the lead up to and during
But the Stroke Association has your run.
been there whenever we needed “Throughout my running, and • Vaseline – Apply generously
them. They’ve supported our now more than ever since the to areas that might chafe,
family to believe there can be stroke, my motto has always including thighs and soles • Kit – Make sure everything
life after stroke.” been never, ever give up.” of feet. you wear has been tried and
• Nutrition – Eat plenty of tested on your training runs.
From races to bake sales, find out how you can join #TeamStroke carbohydrates to give you • Most of all - Enjoy becoming
at stroke.org.uk/get-involved. plenty of energy. a running legend like me!
36 37Fit-to-fly certificates
If you’ve had a stroke or have When will my fit-to-fly
any other medical conditions, certificate expire?
Your certificate indicates
it’s important to talk to your
that you’re fit to fly at the time
GP to make sure you’re fit of your trip. If you have a long-
to travel. term condition, your certificate
may need updating each time
We work with AllClear to you travel. Check with your
offer people affected by airline before your next trip
stroke specialist medical travel to make sure.
insurance. Here they share some
advice about fit-to-fly certificates: Where do I get the
certificate from?
When do I need one? Your GP surgery should be able to
Airlines might need a fit-to- help you with this. Contact them
fly certificate if you’ve recently directly or check their website.
been discharged from hospital or
are recovering from an ongoing How much do
medical condition. Certificates certificates cost?
can be needed for a wide range Fees are determined by your
of conditions, so it’s best to check GP surgery, but they usually
with your airline in advance. range from £20-£40.
For more information about AllClear’s travel insurance visit
stroke.org.uk/allclear or call 0808 168 8733.
The Stroke Association is an introducer appointed representative of AllClear Insurance Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by
the Financial Conduct Authority. AllClear Travel Insurance is arranged by AllClear Limited, which is registered in Gibraltar company number
117274. Registered Office: 1st Floor, Portland House, Glacis Road, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA. AllClear Limited is licensed and regulated by the
AllClear will contribute up to 20% of your premium to the Stroke
Gibraltar Financial Services Commission number FSC1329B and trades into the UK on a freedom of services basis, FCA FRN 824283.
Association when you purchase a policy (see stroke.org.uk/allclear).
38 39Making medication It’s clear that people often need
support with their medication
more manageable
after stroke. This needs to be
available in the long-term so
people can access it at different
points in their recovery.
Stroke survivors are often What did the study find? How have you used
given lots of medicines to Our researchers asked your research?
stroke survivors and healthcare We’re developing two tools
reduce their risk of having
professionals about their to help with medication
another stroke. Although experiences. We found that management. The first is to
this medication is important, there are points during their help healthcare professionals to
many find it difficult to recovery when stroke survivors identify stroke survivors who’re
are more likely to have problems likely to have problems with
manage the amount they’re
managing their medicine. For taking medicines. They can then
prescribed, and to keep example, ordering their first repeat pass this information on to the
taking it in the long-term. prescription, or adjusting to a new stroke survivor’s pharmacist
medicine routine when they get and GP so they can get support.
Since 2016, the Stroke Association home from hospital.
has funded the KeMIST study The second is a short What’s next for
(Kent Medicine Support in Stroke Stroke survivors also said they’d questionnaire to help stroke the KeMIST study?
and TIA). This aims to find out what experienced a mixture of practical survivors to recognise their own We’re now applying for funding
issues prevent stroke survivors issues and worries about taking issues with medication. They to test the tools we’ve developed,
from taking their medication, their medicines. They were could fill this in and take it to so we can make sure they’re easy
what support they need, and unsure how to get and take their their pharmacist to help them to use and able to identify the
how this should be offered. medicines, had concerns about discuss any issues they’re having. people who need support.
side effects or didn’t understand
Dr Sarah Corlett who why they were taking the
Visit stroke.org.uk/projects to find out more about our research.
leads the KeMIST medicine in the first place. Age
research team tells and living situation also affected You can support stroke research by donating what you can at
us about their work: how likely they were to have stroke.org.uk/donating or calling 0300 330 0740.
problems with medication.
40 41Money Matters
Who can get VAT relief? How do I get it? What if I’m not eligible?
Did you know that you If you have a permanent disability The retailer or supplier is If you have a temporary disability,
can get VAT relief on certain or health condition, including responsible for checking if goods for example a broken leg, you
services and equipment if you dementia or diabetes, you can be sold VAT-free. You then don’t qualify for VAT relief.
don’t have to pay VAT on things need to sign a declaration to However, if you’re over 60, you
have a long-term disability or
to support your personal and confirm your disability or health can get a reduced VAT rate of 5%
health condition? Our Stroke domestic living. VAT relief isn’t condition. If you’re unsure if this on certain mobility aids, including
Helpline Team tell us more: means-tested so doesn’t depend applies to you, speak to your GP. grab rails, ramps, stair lifts and
on your financial situation. adapted bathrooms supplied
What is VAT relief? VAT isn’t refundable by HMRC, and fitted in your home. Ask your
VAT or Value Added Tax is a tax What items are eligible? but rather doesn’t get charged supplier about reduced VAT.
paid on goods and services, and Practical products designed to in the first place. If you think
is usually included in the price. help you because of your illness you’ve paid too much VAT,
Most things are taxed at the or disability are often available contact your supplier for a refund.
current standard rate of 20%. without VAT. These include wheel-
But if you’re chronically ill or chairs, specialist chairs and beds, Where can I find out more?
disabled, you can buy certain low vision aids, lifting equipment Call HMRC’s VAT Disabled Relief Helpline on 0300 123 1073.
goods or services without and emergency alarm call systems. Visit gov.uk and search “VAT relief”.
having to pay VAT. Some building works, such as Write to: Charities, Savings and International 2,
installing lifts, can also be VAT-free. HM Revenue and Customs, BX9 1BU.
42 43Puzzles
Solutions
see page 50
Down
11 Harmony in opinion (9)
2 Type of carpet (9) 13 Something supplied (9)
3 Top crust of a pie (3) 14 One to whom legal right
4 Town NE of Manchester (8) is transferred (8)
5 Think (over); island (4) 18 Source; in good health (4)
6 Using biting irony (9) 20 Frozen water (3)
7 Help, support (3) 21 Stinging insect (3)
Puzzles can be a fun way to exercise your mind and improve
concentration, understanding and memory. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Word search Across
1 One paying a brief visit (6) 8 9
E P K B R T J Y E 5 Unlucky accident (6)
H W O L E M T E V 8 Surrounded by (4)
9 Grand Canyon river (8) 10 11 12 13
S M I A F I S M L 10 Not uttered (6)
P Q M N R L L L O 12 European mountains (4) 14
15 Process killing bacteria (13)
M S Y O E T O V V 15
16 Genuine (4)
A R I I S A Z G N 17 Island in Bay of Naples (6)
K R K T H L D S I 19 This clue’s number (8)
21 French cheese (4) 16 17
P R W A L K F C U 22 Something paid for hire (6)
Y T I N U M M O C 23 (Actors) leave the stage (6) 18
19 20 21
NATIONAL GOLF
Lottery
PRIORITY WALK For your chance to win £25,000
REFRESH TALK every week, play the Stroke
22 23
TEAM INVOLVE Association Charity Lottery.
COMMUNITY AIMS Find out more at stroke.zaffo.com.
With thanks to The Times/News Syndication who granted us rights to this crossword.
44 45Wheelchaircars.co.uk Classifieds
Please contact Gemma Davies at gemma.davies@redactive.co.uk or call 020 7880 7668 to book.
Self – Catering Holiday Cottages with
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Physiotherapy, activities, outings, Clos-o-Mat toilet, ceiling & manual hoists,
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Get your copy of our 2019 brochure whole property. Open all year.
For more information telephone 01787 372343
www.leuchiehouse.org.uk (office hours) or to book your holiday please
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hoists, shower chairs, riser recliner chairs
plus a wide range of extra equipment to
Tel: 0161 793 5934
make your stay easier and more
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are only 15 mins from Truro and 30 mins
from the Eden Project, making Treworgans
the ideal place to explore the beautiful
Full details on our website, View our large range of vehicles
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www.wheelchaircars.co.uk
www.mobilitynationwide.co.uk www.treworgans.co.ukHow does your donation help?
Rebuilding lives 5
£5 could provide 15 people
with crucial factsheets,
after stroke
to help them to come to
terms with stroke.
£20 could support our
Stroke Helpline in giving
Volunteer spotlight
20
Our charity supports people to live the best life they can after
advice to people struggling
stroke. But rebuilding lives is a team effort and we need your to cope. Gill Farley is a volunteer with our
help. A huge thank you to everyone who’s gone the extra Oxfordshire Communication
£50 could help us to
mile to fundraise, volunteer and campaign with us. Your Support Service. For five years,
invest in life-saving
50
she’s helped stroke survivors
support means we can reach even more people who need us. stroke research.
with aphasia to find ways to
communicate.
“I’ve had some very memorable
moments and met some
truly remarkable individuals.
One man wanted to become
confident writing short
Facebook messages to keep in
touch with friends and family.
But his stroke had affected his
ability to spell and write.
“Together we worked on a
BHTA Steptember challenge Unipart Dorman Give a Hand and Bake message to explain his aphasia.
It took him a long time to write,
Congratulations to everyone who Thanks to Nena Green and In October, bakers UK-wide
but he did it. It reads like a poem
completed the British Healthcare her colleagues at Unipart whisked up some amazing
as short sentences work best.”
Trades Association’s Steptember Dorman for choosing us as their treats for Give a Hand and Bake.
challenge. They clocked up charity of the year. From taking Thanks to everyone who took Find out more about our
over 10,000 steps a day during part in our Resolution Runs the opportunity to enjoy some different volunteering
September and raised over £3,500 to organising bike rides, they cake and a cuppa while raising opportunities by visiting
for us – thank you very much! raised £2,050. money for a great cause! stroke.org.uk/volunteer.
48 49Dates for
your diary ARE YOU
Life After Stroke Awards 2019:
nomination closing date
24 May PAYING
CARE FEES?
Give someone the recognition
they deserve: stroke.org.uk/
Make May Purple
lasa2019.
1-31 May
Sign up for a Make May Purple The Kiltwalk Speak to our dedicated team of experts.
pack (see page 22): June – September
stroke.org.uk/may19. Walk for us at events in Aberdeen, Are you worried about moving to a care home? Are you caring for someone who has
complex health needs? We have a dedicated team who are committed to meeting
Dundee and Edinburgh this the needs of elderly and vulnerable clients. Over the years we have recovered
London 2 Brighton summer: stroke.org.uk/kiltwalk. hundreds of thousands of pounds for families who have wrongly paid care fees.
Challenge We can help you with: • Court of Protection Applications
25-26 May Robin Hood Half Marathon • Social Care Assessments and care fees • Lasting Powers of Attorney
Walk, jog or run from city 29 September • Entitlement to free NHS Continuing • Wills, Probate and Inheritance Tax
to seaside for #TeamStroke. Sign up for one of our Healthcare Funding Planning
Contact LondonFundraising charity places by contacting • Mental Capacity and Best Interests
@stroke.org.uk. joanne.drake@stroke.org.uk.
Debbie Anderson
Head of the Health and Moore & Tibbits
For more events and ways to get involved in our work, see stroke.org.uk. Community Care Team Solicitors
For a free consultation a member of
Crossword solution E P K B R T J Y E please call Debbie and
H W O L E M T E V her team on:
Across: S M I A F I S M L 01926 354704
1 Caller, 5 Mishap, 8 Amid, 9 Colorado, 10 Unsaid, 12 Alps, P Q M N R L L L O
15 Sterilisation, 16 True, 17 Ischia, 19 Nineteen, 21 Brie, 22 Rental, M S Y O E T O V V
23 Exeunt
A R I I S A Z G N
Down: K R K T H L D S I 01926 354704 www.qualitysolicitors.com/moore-tibbits
2 Axminster, 3 Lid, 4 Rochdale, 5 Mull, 6 Sarcastic, 7 Aid,
11 Agreement, 13 Provision, 14 Assignee, 18 Well, 20 Ice, 21 Bee
P R W A L K F C U NATIONWIDE SERVICE
Y T I N U M M O C
Moore & Tibbits Limited is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, no. 563197.
50Suffering with
Drop Foot?
Book an assessment today
and give yourself a lift
STRIVE FOR BETTER.
Our nationwide clinics have a variety of solutions for people living with drop foot.
Contact us today to make an appointment. Tel: 0800 433 2239 or email: enquiry@dorset-ortho.com. Quote SN1
Nationwide
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