​Stalybridge stroke survivor receives regional recognition

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

Ann Williams, 67, was a successful folk musician performing gigs across the North West alongside her daughter Shelley, before she had a stroke in May 2013. The stroke affected Ann’s mobility and coordination, and she lost her confidence. After her stroke, she struggled to remember the songs she had previously written and performed so confidently.

Ann needed a lot of help with everyday tasks and while in hospital for three weeks, the occupational therapists suggested Ann’s family bring in her guitar for her to try and play. It was a challenge, but after working with hospital staff and playing her CDs on the ward, she gradually started to play the guitar again on her own.

The Stroke Association visited Ann while in hospital and provided on-going support. The charity’s coordinator, Joyce Booth, invited Ann to attend choir sessions organised by the charity. Now Ann has joined the charity’s North West Community Choir, practising each week and performing regularly at events around the region.

Ann was nominated for the Award for Creative Arts by Joyce, who said: “By performing at every opportunity, Ann has shown amazing courage and determination. She has proved she is overcoming the challenges she faced after her stroke, and is helping others to see they can achieve their dreams and continue to do something they love.

“Ann now also leads a weekly singing group for our local Life After Stroke service, encouraging others to share her love of music. She gives her time, as well as her passion and commitment to others. Without her music Ann would be a shell of the person she was before her stroke. Her performances are a very powerful way of showing others that there is life after stroke.”

Ann received her Highly Commended certificate at a celebratory event at the AJ Bell Stadium in Salford on Tuesday 15 September. Her certificate was presented by Dr Khalil Kawafi, Consultant Stroke Physician and Clinical Lead at The Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, and Sale Sharks players, Andy Hughes and Matt Rogerson. Ann performed in front of 150 guests at the ceremony, alongside the Stroke Association’s North West Community Choir.

Ann said: “Before my stroke, my life revolved around performing and playing my music. I’m very lucky to be where I am now, thanks to all the wonderful support from my friends and family. Being a part of the choir has been so special and it’s made a huge difference to my confidence. It’s an honour to receive the Life After Stroke Award; it’s given me a real sense of achievement.”

Chris Larkin, Regional Director for the Stroke Association in the North West, added: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in the North West were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage local people like Ann 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. Next year’s nominations open on 02 November 2015.

For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA

Between 26 October and 01 November, the Stroke Association is calling on people to ‘Give a Hand’ and raise vital funds for the charity. To find out more, visit www.stroke.org.uk/giveahand.