​Local stroke survivor urges support for charity who helped her recovery

Sheila Brand, a 58 year old stroke survivor from Guisborough is supporting the Stroke Association’s ‘I am more than my stroke’ Christmas appeal after the charity helped her to return to the hobby she loved.

Sheila had been an avid horse rider all her life, buying her own horse at the age of sixteen. However, in November 2015, Sheila had been horse riding at the stables when she had a stroke. Doctors told Sheila’s husband Dave that she had only a 50 per cent chance of survival. Sheila’s stroke left her unable to talk and completely paralysed down her right-hand side.

Dave said: “Sheila had to be taught how to dress herself, and do basic things for herself; it was like starting all over again”

Now, Sheila still has issues with her speech, cognitive issues and has weakness down her right-hand side. She was supported by the Stroke Association’s Communication Support Service, to help build new communication skills and also to rebuild her confidence.

Dave said: “We both really benefitted from the Stroke Association’s Communication Support group. It’s so helpful to meet people with similar issues, and you no longer feel the odd one out. Sheila was very conscious about her speech, but hearing people telling her how well she is doing has really helped to build her confidence.”

In fact, in August 2018, Sheila felt confident to visit the Unicorn Centre, a horse riding school which enables people with disabilities to enjoy riding. Sheila has now enjoyed lessons and even took part in a dressage competition in October, finishing in sixth place.

Shelia said: “I’ve always ridden horses and used to have my own horse. It has always been a massive part of my life. After my stroke I knew I’d get back to horse riding. I just couldn’t not do it. I know first-hand that stroke can turn your life upside down in an instant and change it forever. But despite what I’ve been through, the support I received from the Stroke Association made me feel that I am more than my stroke, I’m still me and I can still live my life.

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 Sheila.”

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.

The Stroke Association is looking for volunteers to support communication groups in the Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland area. No previous experience is necessary as full training and support will be provided. Volunteering will usually be three hours every fortnight. For more information, contact Karen Jones on 01642 988147.