​Knutsford stroke survivor receives regional recognition

A young stroke survivor from Knutsford has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association in recognition of her courage and determination after stroke.

In 2004, aged just 18, Charlotte Covey’s world came crashing down. She was preparing to study Psychology at the University of Manchester and had a busy social life, when one night an untraced driver ran her off the road. The resulting sideways whiplash caused a growing clot, which led to a devastating stroke.

Initially Charlotte couldn’t talk, write or move her right side. Over time, Charlotte started to improve but she still struggled with the loss of use of her dominant hand, drop-foot and affected speech. The effects of her stroke and inability to accept what happened led to two serious bouts of anorexia.

However, a counsellor who specialised in bereavement for loss of limb was instrumental in guiding Charlotte down a new path, and as she accepted the loss of her former self, she found the determination to rebuild her life.

Now 31, Charlotte works part-time, has learnt to drive using a steering wheel spinner, and volunteers for the Stroke Association. She recently addressed Members of Parliament in a bid to help survivors gain timely access to health and social care. She also now regularly delivers presentations to raise awareness of stroke.

Charlotte was nominated for her award by Diane Warhurst, Stroke Association Support Coordinator. Diane said: “Charlotte has come such a long way since her stroke and completely grasped life again. She is so passionate about issues affecting young stroke survivors and has overcome her fear of public speaking to raise awareness. She has spoken to rehabilitation clinicians, stroke professionals and Stroke Association staff, sharing her powerful story to help others.”

Charlotte’s brother Jonathan supported the nomination, adding: “I feel like I have my sister back. She is an inspiration. Charlotte may be slightly different to my sister before the stroke, but I believe she is an even better person now.”

Charlotte received her Highly Commended certificate at a celebratory event at the Holiday Inn in Liverpool City Centre on Monday 27 November, which was supported by Randox Health. Charlotte’s certificate was presented by Professor Tony Rudd, National Clinical Director for Stroke with NHS England, and the charity’s Chief Executive Officer, Juliet Bouverie, alongside former Liverpool FC footballer David Fairclough.

Chris Larkin, Director for the Stroke Association in the North, added: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many local people across the North West were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people like Charlotte have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke, or in helping others to do the same.”

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Founder and Managing Director of Randox Health said: “We applaud the incredible work done by the Stroke Association and others who help to rebuild the lives of people affected by stroke. We also want to help patients, and are currently developing new tests that will dramatically improve the ability to diagnose strokes earlier.

“We also want to help the charity to spread the message of the power of prevention – and of all health concerns, stroke is the one which may be most preventable by better improving people’s understanding of their health and enabling them to make simple lifestyle changes. We’ve developed the world’s most comprehensive health screening tests – assessing up to 350 individual elements of your body - to empower everyone with the knowledge to make those changes. Our expertise helps people to lead healthier lives, for longer.”

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