​Blackburn stroke survivor receives regional recognition

A stroke survivor from Blackburn has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association, in recognition of his determination and volunteering after stroke.

Stewart Whittaker had a stroke in July 2014 at the age of 38. Stewart’s stroke left his whole right side paralysed. Fortunately his mobility issues resolved quite quickly, however Stewart’s stroke also affected his memory and left him with severe aphasia, which saw him struggle to find the right words.

When Stewart was in hospital, a friend who was visiting noticed that all Stewart was saying was ‘No’. If a nurse asked whether he would like a drink, his answer was ‘No’. Stewart’s friend asked him whether he would like a million pounds, and when he still said ‘No’, his friend recognised the severity of his difficulties expressing his wants and needs.

Stewart was discharged home after a few weeks and supported by with Speech and Language Therapy, as well as receiving Communication Support from the Stroke Association in Blackburn with Darwen.

Vicky Cheshire, Stroke Association Support Coordinator, said: “Stewart felt more confident talking with friends, but lacked confidence communicating with people he didn’t know. He also felt frustrated when people interrupted him. Stewart came along to the Stroke Association’s communication group, meeting other stroke survivors living with aphasia. Over time, his confidence began to grow. Although he knows his communication will never be how it was before his stroke, he has done a fantastic job getting to where he is now because of his hard work and determination.”

Eventually the Stroke Association team asked Stewart to take other group member’s drinks orders, giving him a different role within the group. It was at this point of Stewart’s recovery that he became a volunteer for the charity, nearly two years after his stroke. Now, Stewart volunteers at the charity’s communication group, while sharing his experience of stroke in front of care home staff in the area to help them understand stroke survivors needs, and also supporting awareness events organised by the Stroke Association.

Stewart was nominated for a Life After Stroke Award by Vicky. She added: “Stewart truly is an inspiration. He has made massive improvements with his communication, due to his positive outlook and determination. Within his role as a volunteer, people often comment how far Stewart has come. He is very modest, his motto being ‘It could have been worse’. Stewart is a brilliant volunteer for the Stroke Association and a real asset to our team.”

Stewart received his Highly Commended certificate at a celebratory event at the AJ Bell Stadium in Salford on Thursday 31 January.

Stewart said: “I’m pleased I can help other people. Volunteering helps me too with my communication. I just see what I do as normal and like helping other people who have had a stroke too.”

Chris Larkin, Director for the Stroke Association in the North, added: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many local people across the North West were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people like Stewart 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/LASA