Surrey resident cooks up a storm thanks to the Stroke Association

A sixty-three-year-old stroke survivor has been able to cook a meal again, two years after a devastating stroke.

Lesley McVea, from Lingfield, had a stroke in August 2015. Lesley was left with weakness in her right leg and arm and is now unable to write. She said: “I had been having problems with pins and needles (and numbness) in my face, arm and hand. Eventually I collapsed at home. Luckily, a neighbour called an ambulance.

“As a result of my stroke, I lost my job, and had to give up my driving licence. I have had to adjust to a completely different way of life, which has been difficult, but I’m determined to rebuild my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, but even preparing a simple meal for myself was a huge challenge.”

The Stroke Association have provided Lesley with a Life After Stroke Grant, which has meant she can cook her own meals again.

Lesley said: “Since I’ve received a Life After Stroke Grant, which has allowed me to purchase an Air Fryer, I haven’t looked back. It is easy to use and the handle is safe for me to use, even though I can’t use my right hand. This has given me a new lease of life, and I'm very grateful for the help and support that has been given to me over the past two years.”

Tara Galloway, Head of Stroke Support for the South East at the Stroke Association, said: “Lesley didn’t think she would be able to cook again because of her stroke, so we’re thrilled to see that Lesley is now back in the kitchen and can enjoy nourishing home-cooked dinners.”

For more information about Life After Stroke Grants from the Stroke Association, visit www.stroke.org.uk/grants