Press release -
Leicester stroke survivor receives regional recognition
A stroke survivor from Leicester has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association in recognition of her courage and determination.
Vickie Bulman, 51, was a full-time working mum when she had a life-changing stroke in June 2012. After experiencing facial cramps, Vickie was rushed to hospital where she had surgery and was put in a medically induced coma, while her family was told to expect the worst. Now dependent on her husband, Vickie’s stroke has left her with limited mobility on her left side, affected her speech and has also caused her to re-learn how to read and write.
Vickie was nominated for the Adult Courage Award by Jenny King, Family and Carer Support Coordinator at the Stroke Association, who has supported her throughout her recovery.
Jenny said: “Life has changed completely for Vickie, yet despite all the challenges she has faced, her incredibly positive attitude and sheer determination always shine through. She has a great sense of humour and has shown such courage and bravery in making the best of her situation, while also sharing her experiences to help others. She is a true inspiration and makes a great impression on everyone she meets.”
Vickie said: “Although my life has changed dramatically, I have lots of support from my husband and children. I’m over the moon to have been nominated for a Life After Stroke Award by Jenny, it was a really lovely surprise.”
Vickie received her Highly Commended certificate at a celebratory event at The ICC in Birmingham on Wednesday 25 November. Her certificate was presented by Dave Hill, lead guitarist and vocalist in Slade.
Bernice Jones, Regional Director for the Stroke Association in the West Midlands, said: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in the West Midlands and Leicestershire were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage local people like Vickie 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.
Nominations for the 2016 Life After Stroke Awards are currently open and close on 30 April 2016. For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA
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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
