Press release -
New Forest volunteer receives regional recognition
Brenda Hipkin,79,from the New Forest has been awarded a Highly Commended Life After Stroke certificate from the Stroke Association for her dedication to transforming the lives of people affected by stroke.
Brenda has regularly volunteered with the Stroke Association since 2003 and is now the Chair of the Hordle Stroke Support Group in the New Forest. The Hordle group provides support for New Forest stroke survivors who are living with communication difficulties after stroke, and their carers.
The presentation took place at the Hordle group on Monday 7 September 2015, when 27 past and present group members and volunteers came along to celebrate the occasion.
Brenda said: “thank you Stroke Association for my nomination for a Life After Stroke Award, it was a big surprise. I have had a great team of volunteers with me. The enjoyment I feel through helping stroke survivors rebuild their lives is indescribable.”
Yvonne Hobbs, Communication Support Coordinator for the Stroke Association in the New Forest, who nominated Brenda for the Volunteer Award, said: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that Brenda’s nomination for a Life After Stroke Award was recognised. Brenda has been a stalwart in ensuring that the voluntary group is there through thick and thin, providing ongoing support to New Forest stroke survivors with aphasia.
“Brenda has incredible compassion and an ability to listen and communicate with everyone she meets. The Stroke Association would not be able to function as it does, were it not for the dedication of volunteers such as Brenda.”
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/LifeAfterStrokeAwards
Between 26 October and 01 November, the Stroke Association is calling on people to ‘Give a Hand’ to conquer stroke and raise vital funds for the charity. To find out more, visit www.stroke.org.uk/giveahand
Topics
A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain. There are around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability. There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke.
Stroke Association is a charity. We believe in life after stroke and together we can conquer stroke. We work directly with stroke survivors and their families and carers, with health and social care professionals and with scientists and researchers. We campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can. We fund research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. The Stroke Helpline (0303 303 3100) provides information and support on stroke. More information can be found at www.stroke.org.uk
