​Gateshead stroke survivor receives regional recognition

A Gateshead stroke survivor has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association, in recognition of her creativity after stroke.

Denise Groom, 56, had a severe stroke during back surgery in September 2013. She was in Queen Elizabeth Hospital for three weeks, before leaving with limited communication. She struggled with stuttering when she spoke and was left with trouble writing and spelling. Before her stroke, Denise was a keen writer of children’s stories, often reading her own original tales to her nephews and young family members. However after her stroke, she found herself writing back to front, also known as mirror writing.

Once discharged from hospital, Denise was supported by the Stroke Association’s Communication Support Service, which gave her the confidence to begin writing again. As her writing skills returned, Denise wrote five short children’s stories, which were combined with five tales written before her stroke and published in her very first book, Trotters Tales: A Dream Come True in December 2014.

Denise was nominated for the Creative Arts Award by Stroke Association coordinator, Maria Wilkinson. Maria said: “The joy on Denise’s face when she first saw the book was priceless; she was so proud of her achievements she was fit to burst. Her family have been astounded at how much her confidence has grown and it’s had a great improvement on her emotional and psychological wellbeing. We’re looking forward to reading collection number two!”

Denise received her Highly Commended certificate from BBC Look North presenter, Paul Mooney, at a celebratory event at the Marriott Hotel in Gateshead on Wednesday 15 July.

Denise said: “I was over the moon to receive the award and it was a wonderful evening. When I first came out of hospital I sat at home and was very apprehensive about attending the Communication Support Group. However, we soon became like a little family and being around others in a similar situation really helped to build my confidence. When I took my stories in to share with the group, they were so positive it encouraged me to write again. I’m now planning my second book so watch this space.”

Peter Moore, Regional Head of Operations for the Stroke Association in the North East, continued: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in the North East were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke, or in helping others to do the same.”

The Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Awards recognise the courage shown by stroke survivors and carers as well as the great work and commitment shown by health professionals, groups and supporter organisations. For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA

For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.