Press release - 3 November 2014 12:04

Crewe stroke survivor receives regional recognition

A musical stroke survivor from Crewe has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association, in recognition of her courage and determination.

Mother of two teenage sons, Heather Smyth, 53, is diabetic and had both legs amputated below the knee two years ago. She spent months learning to walk again with prosthetic legs, and she was eventually able to lead a normal, busy life. Heather enjoyed playing baritone in two local brass bands, loving the jolly atmosphere and playing to an audience. But then she had a stroke in August 2013 which left her with weakness on the right side, and she was devastated when she could no longer play.

She said: “I was worried about how my future life would be if I couldn’t walk again or take part in the band which I loved so much. I missed the band and the camaraderie from being a part of the band. The stroke had been such a shock and destroyed my confidence. I felt isolated, as I could no longer drive my car, which had previously been adapted with manual controls to give me my independence.”

Determined not to let the stroke stop her, Heather learnt to play the trombone, as she didn’t think she would be able to play the baritone again. However, Heather then taught herself to play the baritone with her left hand. She now performs with Crewe Brass and Sandbach and District U3A, playing at concerts across the UK and Europe.

Heather received her Highly Commended certificate from Dr Jordi Morrell, Stroke Consultant at Central Manchester Foundation Trust, and Sale Sharks rugby stars, Mark Cueto and Danny Cipriani, at a celebratory event at the AJ Bell Stadium, Salford on Tuesday 28 October.

Hilary Belshaw, Information, Advice and Support Coordinator for the Stroke Association, nominated Heather for the award after supporting her with her recovery. She said: “A stroke happens in an instant but its effects can last a lifetime. Heather has shown such strength and courage. Her determination knows no bounds and she is a real inspiration. Heather is proof that together, we can conquer stroke.”

Chris Larkin, Regional Head of Operations for the Stroke Association in the North West, added: “We were thrilled that so many of our community in the North West were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke, or in helping others to do the same. If you would like to nominate someone for their recovery or for doing something incredible to raise vital funds for people recovering from stroke, please nominate them for next year’s awards.”

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. Next year’s nominations open on 5 November 2014. For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LifeAfterStrokeAwards

For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.

Topics

Regions

Cheshire

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 around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability. 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