Birmingham stroke survivor receives regional recognition

Press release -

Birmingham stroke survivor receives regional recognition

A local stroke survivor has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association in recognition of her courage and participation in the latest stroke research, as well as supporting others following her stroke.

Sheena Davidson received her award at the regional Life After Stroke Awards at The Forest of Arden Marriot Hotel in Birmingham on Sunday 20 January 2019. Coronation Street Actor, Kriss Dosanjh, was on hand to present the award.

In May 2016, Sheena, aged 64, suffered a stroke while working as an auxiliary nurse at Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust. The effects of Sheena’s stroke were so devastating that she lost the ability to walk, talk or carry out simple daily tasks, which left her feeling isolated and alone.

Sheena has since gone on to play a pivotal role in the latest stroke research projects from the University of Oxford and University College London, one of which looks at a care pathway for cognitive problems (in memory, language and attention) after stroke.

Sheena said: “I see having a stroke as a journey. When I first had my stroke, my right hand side was paralysed so I have been learning to walk and talk and write with my right hand again.

“I love being a part of research - finding out more about the condition and knowing that I am helping somebody else has really helped lift my spirits too.”

“It is an honour and I feel very blessed to receive this award from the Stroke Association. I have so much to thank nurses and doctors for; and everyone who supported me during my journey.”

Following her experience in taking part in stroke research, Sheena has committed to becoming a Patient Research Ambassador, working with the Clinical Research Network (CRN) West Midlands.

She is also the founder of Pannel Croft Community Singers, a choir which consists of and supports stroke survivors and other members of the community. They hold regularly fundraising concerts in the area.

Rachel Evans, Senior Research Facilitator at the CRN West Midlands, who nominated Sheena for the award said: “I am delighted that Sheena has been recognised with this award. Her courage following her stroke has been inspirational and the research she has taken part in is so important in helping other stroke survivors in their recovery.

“It has been my privilege to have met this lovely lady who has so much to give – her character has seen her through some tough times – and helped others realise that there is life after stroke.”

Jacqui Cuthbert, Director for the Stroke Association in Central England, added: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many local people were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people like Sheena 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

Ends

Image features Coronation Street Actor Kriss Dosanjh and Sheena Davidson 

Topics

  • A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain. There are more than 100,000 strokes in the UK each year; that is around one stroke every five minutes. There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke. 
  • Stroke Association is a charity. We believe in life after stroke and together we can conquer stroke. We work directly with stroke survivors and their families and carers, with health and social care professionals and with scientists and researchers. We campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can. We fund research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. The Stroke Helpline (0303 303 3100) provides information and support on stroke. More information can be found at www.stroke.org.uk

    • Contacts

    Angela Macleod

    Angela Macleod

    Press contact Communications Officer Scotland press and Stroke Association research communications 0131 555 7244
    Laura Thomas

    Laura Thomas

    Press contact Communications Officer Wales 07776508594
    Ken Scott

    Ken Scott

    Press contact Press Officer North of England and Midlands 0115 778 8429
    Daisy Dighton

    Daisy Dighton

    Press contact Press Officer London and East of England 02079401358
    Martin Oxley

    Martin Oxley

    Press contact Press Officer South of England 07776 508 646
    Vicki Hall

    Vicki Hall

    Press contact PR Manager Fundraising and local services 0161 742 7478
    Scott Weddell

    Scott Weddell

    Press contact PR Manager Stroke policy, research and Northern Ireland 02075661528
    Katie Padfield

    Katie Padfield

    Press contact Head of PR & Media This team is not responsible for booking marketing materials or advertising
    Out of hours contact

    Out of hours contact

    Press contact Media queries 0207 566 1528
    Kate Asselman

    Kate Asselman

    Press contact Artist Liaison Lead 07540 518022
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    Tell us your story

    Press contact 07799 436008

    The UK's leading stroke charity helping people to rebuild their lives after stroke

    The Stroke Association. We believe in life after stroke. That’s why we campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best possible recovery. It’s why we fund research to develop new treatments and ways to prevent stroke. The Stroke Association is a charity. We rely on your support to change lives and prevent stroke. Together we can conquer stroke.

    Stroke Association
    240 City Road
    EC1V 2PR London
    UK