Press release -
Liverpool stroke survivor receives regional recognition
A
stroke survivor from Liverpool has bounced back with banter and received a Highly
Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association, in recognition
of his courage and determination.
Ian Collins, 53, had a stroke in his sleep 11 years ago; he woke up and couldn’t walk or use the right side of his body. He was forced to leave his job as a joiner, where he was working long hours to support his young family
After being supported by the Stroke Association during his recovery, Ian now volunteers for the charity. He is a stroke ambassador and chairs the charity’s voluntary led groups, Liverpool Art Group and Merseyside Young Stroke Group. Both groups are thriving and support many stroke survivors across Merseyside with social activities.
Ian received his Highly Commended certificate from Dr Jordi Morrell, Stroke Consultant at Central Manchester Foundation Trust, and Sale Sharks rugby stars, Danny Cipriani and Mark Cueto, at a celebratory event at the AJ Bell Stadium, Salford on Tuesday 28 October.
Kate Charles, Information, Advice and Support Coordinator for the Stroke Association, nominated Ian for the award. She said: “Ian was referred to the Stroke Association three years ago. He attended the young stroke group and his personality shone through. Despite everything that he was going through, he always managed to make everyone laugh.
“I am extremely proud and privileged to know Ian. He has conquered stroke with good humour and selflessness, helping his peers find a life after stroke. To see how far he has come over the last few years is amazing. Even though he doesn’t always see it, he really does make a huge difference to other stroke survivors.”
Chris Larkin, Regional Head of Operations for the Stroke Association in the North West, added: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. 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. Together we can conquer stroke.”
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.
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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
