Young stroke survivor and fiancé receive regional recognition

A young Peterlee stroke survivor and her fiancé have each been awarded a Highly Commended Life After Stroke certificate from the Stroke Association.

Videographer Donna Watson, 26, had a massive stroke in February 2013, just five months after giving birth to her first baby girl, Millie Alice. The stroke changed her life completely and left her paralysed down the right hand side of her body. She had also lost her ability to swallow, her speech and her hearing and her vision was also severely affected.

Against doctors’ expectations, Donna refused to give up and walked out of hospital with a walking stick three months later. While she still has a long way to go on her road to recovery, Donna is aiming to walk unaided down the aisle at her wedding to fiancé Nicky King in the Lake District in July 2015.

She also recently took part in the Stroke Association’s Step out for Stroke fundraising walk in Gateshead, alongside 25 of her close friends and family, when she walked the whole mile course with the aid of Millie Alice’s pushchair.

Her sister Lyndsey, who was among those who nominated Donna for the Adult Courage award, said: “Even when the odds were against her, Donna has shown that with a fighting spirit and a positive attitude you can achieve anything. She is an amazing mother and inspiration and she is positive she will lead a normal life again.”

Donna’s fiancé Nicky was also recognised with a Highly Commended Life After Stroke certificate, after Donna nominated him for the Carer Award. She said: “When I had my stroke, I called Nicky who found me at home and called 999 immediately. Nicky travelled 40 minutes every day to visit me in hospital with Millie and helped me with my speech and coordination. When I returned home, Nicky walked with me daily and helped me with my exercises, cooking me healthy meals and helping to get both myself and Millie ready each day.

“He booked us a minibreak and we visited our wedding venue where he promised me I would walk down the aisle. We have our daily struggles but he always surprises me and keeps me upbeat. He has been a lifesaver in more ways than one. I have a long journey ahead but I know I’m not alone.”

Donna and Nicky each received their 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