Press release -
Young Stockton-on-Tees stroke survivor receives regional recognition
A 12 year old stroke survivor from Stockton-on-Tees has been awarded a Highly Commended Life After Stroke certificate from the Stroke Association, in recognition of her courage and determination.
Emily Simpson was just 10 years old when she had a stroke in July 2012. She was just about to take her dog out for a walk when she collapsed in a heap at home. Noticing her face had drooped and she was limp down one side, her dad took her straight to hospital. While still in hospital a week later, Emily suffered a second stroke which required emergency surgery.
After many tests, Emily was diagnosed with Central Nervous System Vasculitis and was left with an acquired brain injury which affected her communication and cognitive skills.
After three months of intense physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, Emily returned home, although she also had to undergo six months of chemotherapy to lower her immune system. Emily now attends Bishopsgarth School where she is making excellent progress with her reading and writing.
Emily’s mother Carolyn nominated her for the Stroke Association’s Young Persons Courage Award. She said: “When we saw Emily had the symptoms of stroke, we couldn’t believe it as we thought she was far too young. Emily was an intelligent little girl, learning to play the guitar, violin and the trumpet and had plenty of living to do.
"Throughout all of this, Emily has kept her sense of humour, determination and smile. She has made amazing progress and continues on the long road to recovery. Without a doubt, she has been very brave and is an inspiration to us all.”
Emily received her Highly Commended certificate from Dr Satinder Sanghera, GP partner at Weardale Practice. Dr Sanghera had a stroke at the age of 20, which affected her right side and caused expressive dysphasia. The presentation took place at the Marriott Hotel in Gateshead on Wednesday 25 June.
Peter Moore, Regional Head of Operations for the Stroke Association in the North East, continued: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in the North East were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people 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 visit www.stroke.org.uk/LifeAfterStrokeAwards
For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.
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Interview and photo opportunities are available, please contact Vicki Wray on 0161 742 7478 or email vicki.wray@stroke.org.uk
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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 we’re leading a community of people to change the world for people affected by 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 ww.stroke.org.uk
