​Prestbury stroke survivor urges support for charity who helped his recovery

Dr Finn Farquharson, a stroke survivor from Prestbury, is supporting the Stroke Association’s ‘I am more than my stroke’ Christmas appeal after the charity helped him to rebuild his independence.

Finn had a stroke in July 2017, aged 43, whilst at work at the Manchester Royal Infirmary. The stroke was caused by a carotid artery tear during a workout at the gym that morning, causing a clot to form, which later dislodged and went to his brain. The only warning Finn got was blurry vision in his left eye. He received a thrombectomy to remove the clot within several hours.

While he regained the ability to use his right limbs fairly quickly, the stroke left Finn with severe aphasia.

Finn said: “I was so scared, but I feel lucky to be here. I am focused and determined. I find opportunities to practise my speech wherever I can.”

The Stroke Association introduced Finn to communication groups. Through these groups, he has found out how others manage in their recovery, and it has been an invaluable opportunity to practise his communication skills.

His wife Grace added: “The more independence he gains, the easier it gets for me. I am encouraged by the fact that I am always seeing improvements in his recovery.”

Finn recently had a second stroke, however he is recovering well and this festive season, they are hoping for a true family Christmas, and especially looking forward to Finn making his famous Christmas ham once more.

There are more than 100,000 strokes in the UK each year. Stroke continues to be a leading cause of disability and over 80 per cent of stroke survivors require help with daily living such as walking, washing, eating and communicating. The ‘I am more than my stroke’ Christmas appeal is seeking to raise money for the Stroke Association so that they can continue to help more stroke survivors with their recovery.

Chris Larkin, Regional Director at the Stroke Association, said: “For many stroke survivors, rebuilding their lives after stroke is a long and challenging process. Stroke not only presents physical challenges, but the way it suddenly changes people’s lives and their plans for their future can also cause feelings of depression, anxiety and despair. However, we have seen that with the right support many people can be helped to live fulfilling lives following their stroke.

“As the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting those affected by stroke, we help to address the emotional, practical and physical needs of stroke survivors and their families so they can achieve the best possible quality of life. However, we aren’t yet able to reach everyone who needs our help and that’s why our Christmas Appeal, ‘I am more than my stroke’ is raising essential funds so that we can be there for more people like Finn.”

To find out more about the help and support the Stroke Association offers and to make a donation to its Christmas Appeal visit stroke.org.uk/iammore.