Press release -
Waterlooville stroke survivor receives regional recognition
A 28-year-old stroke survivor from Horndean has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association, in recognition of her courage and determination.
In November 2014, Colvina, who was 23 weeks pregnant and working as a high dependency nurse , suddenly had a stroke. Colvina was rushed to Southampton Hospital where she fought not only for her life, but for her daughter’s survival too.
Colvina went into spontaneous labour whilst in a coma, and her daughter Maia was born prematurely. Colvina began to make a good recovery and she was eventually reunited with her daughter. Following her stroke she was left with right side weakness and a communication difficulty called aphasia.
Colvina was nominated for the Adult Courage Award by Mandy Souter, Six Month Review Coordinator at the Stroke Association. Mandy said: “Colvina’s life has changed drastically since her stroke. Being a first-time parent is challenging for anyone, but being a stroke survivor as well as a new mum is extremely hard. Watching Colvina show such incredible determination since her stroke has been truly moving. Everyone who meets Colvina is touched and inspired by her courage and zest for life. I know that Colvina’s nomination will help inspire other stroke survivors and show everyone that there is life after stroke.”
Colvina received her Highly Commended certificate at a celebratory event at the Grand Harbour Hotel in Southampton on Thursday 24 November. Her certificate was presented by Esme Mutter, Regional Director at the Stroke Association.
Colvina said: “I feel so proud. It’s an honour to receive the Life After Stroke Award; it’s given me a real sense of achievement.”
Esme Mutter, Regional Director for the Stroke Association in South Central, added: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in South Central were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage local people like Colvina 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 visitwww.stroke.org.uk/LASA
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 one of the largest causes of 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
