​Local stroke survivor urges support for charity who helped his recovery

Ian Hyson, a stroke survivor from Romney Marsh is supporting the Stroke Association’s ‘I am more than my stroke’ Christmas appeal.

Grandfather of three, Ian, 69, had a stroke at the age of 48 whilst at work. Ian was left with weakness down the left side of his body, and issues with his eyesight. A year later Ian went on to have a mini-stroke (also known as a transient ischaemic attack, or TIA).

Ian said: “I know first-hand that stroke can turn your life upside down in an instant and change it forever. At the time of my stroke I was a brick layer, working all the time when all of a sudden everything stopped. I was fit, healthy and active, I couldn’t believe it had happened to me.

“I knew I couldn’t stop after my stroke. I had to keep moving and working on my recovery. I was determined to keep active and continue to do the things I loved, like gardening. I also took up Tai Chi which has really helped me physically and mentally.

“Earlier in the year I was introduced to the Stroke Association locally, and have joined their weekly Moving Forward After Stroke exercise group. The group is a great place, it helps to get me out of the house, keep fit and meet other people who have been through a similar journey as I have. Despite what I’ve been through, all those years I’ve pushed myself after my stroke and the support I received from the Stroke Association, has made me feel that I am more than my stroke, I’m still me and I can still live my life.”

There are more than 100,000 strokes in the UK each year. Stroke continues to be a leading cause of disability and over 80 per cent of stroke survivors require help with daily living such as walking, washing, eating and communicating. The ‘I am more than my stroke’ Christmas appeal is seeking to raise money for the Stroke Association so that they can continue to help more stroke survivors with their recovery.

Tara Galloway, Stroke Support Manager from Stroke Association said: “For many stroke survivors, rebuilding their lives after stroke is a long and challenging process. Stroke not only presents physical challenges, but the way it suddenly changes people’s lives and their plans for their future can also cause feelings of depression, anxiety and despair. However, we have seen that with the right support many people can be helped to live fulfilling lives following their stroke.

“As the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting those affected by stroke, we help to address the emotional, practical and physical needs of stroke survivors and their families so they can achieve the best possible quality of life. However, we aren’t yet able to reach everyone who needs our help and that’s why our Christmas Appeal, ‘I am more than my stroke’ is raising essential funds so that we can be there for more people like Ian.”

To find out more about the help and support the Stroke Association offers and to make a donation to its Christmas Appeal visit stroke.org.uk/iammore.