​Rochdale stroke survivor walks daughter down the aisle after being left paralysed

A Rochdale stroke survivor who was left paralysed this year has walked his daughter down the aisle, after being supported by the Stroke Association.

Tristan Maynard, 71, had a stroke in March 2018, which left him paralysed down his right side and completely unable to move his right arm or leg. After intense physiotherapy, Tristan was able to walk but only with the support of his walking stick.

He was referred to the Stroke Association’s 12 week Moving Forwards After Stroke programme, in partnership with GM Active. Here, Tristan set himself the goal of walking his daughter Nichola down the aisle at her wedding this September, without the use of his stick.

The 12 week exercise and education programme for stroke survivors sees participants come together each Thursday at Rochdale Leisure Centre, to help reduce their risk of another stroke, and improve their levels of fitness. The two hour sessions cover topics including simple lifestyle changes, healthy diet, and improving mood, as well as an exercise class with a Link4Life instructor qualified in stroke rehabilitation.

Tristan said: “After six weeks intensive therapy at home I started the Moving Forwards programme, and found meeting other stroke survivors so helpful. It’s good to know you’re not the only person dealing with the effects of stroke, and we shared tips and advice.

“From there we started the exercises and I set the goal of walking Nichola down the aisle without my stick. There is no question that the programme helped me. Elaine, the instructor was fantastic. She took my arm and we practised the walk for weeks. She even turned up one week with a lace curtain as a pretend veil!

“On the day itself, I was initially terrified with a room full of people looking at me; I didn’t want to trip up. But all our hard work paid off and it turned it into a pleasurable occasion. It was incredible, and a big relief.”

Eamonn Greene, Stroke Association Support Coordinator, said: “Taking part in the programme has given Tristan so much more confidence. As well as walking his daughter down the aisle, his fitness has improved so much so that he now can walk a mile without using a stick, he can extend his arm above his head and he can do exercises at home. His blood pressure has also improved, which is one of the biggest risk factors for stroke.

“A stroke can be devastating, leaving far too many people facing a lifetime of disability. The Moving Forward After Stroke programme sessions helps local stroke survivors improve their mobility and fitness, while also learning how to help prevent another stroke in the future. The programme also enables Rochdale stroke survivors and carers to meet others who are also rebuilding their lives life after a stroke, build their confidence and lift their mood.”

Paul Gardner, Programme Manager Health & Wellbeing, said: “Since Link4Life starting the moving forward after stroke programme in partnership with the stroke association, it has proved to be a very successful ,with stories like Tristan Maynard being an inspiration to all involved. ”

The programme is open to stroke survivors at any stage of their recovery. To find out more and join the next Moving Forward After Stroke programme, contact Eamonn Greene at the Stroke Association on 075155 97171, or email Eamonn.greene@stroke.org.uk.