Press release -
New choir gives stroke survivors a voice
Stroke survivors from Cwmbran, New Inn and Newport are being encouraged to discover their musical side and join a new choir.
Stroke Association, in partnership with Head for Arts, is organising the choir, which will be made up of people who have been affected by stroke, their family and carers.
The choir meet at Hollybush and Coed Eva Community Hall every Thursday from 12:30 – 13:30. Anyone is welcome to join and Stroke Association hope to connect with stroke survivors, family and carers that may not have had support from the organisation before.
Vanessa Langford is a stroke survivor who attends the choir and volunteers at the Cwmbran and Newport support groups. She explained; “I was in a choir for many years before my stroke so I love having the opportunity to sing again. My voice isn’t what it used to be but it’s improving the more we practise.”
Damien Griffiths also attends the Cwmbran group following his stroke and decided to try the choir. He said; “I was reluctant at first as it’s not something I’ve done before but I’m really enjoying it. After a few weeks I now consider it part of my recovery as it’s quite liberating being able to sing out in a relaxed setting with my fellow group members. It’s just a bit of fun!”
Claire O’Shea, Regional Information and Campaigns Officer with Stroke Association, said: “In Wales there are over 11,000 people who have a stroke each year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability.
“We hope that the choir will help people discover a new talent or rediscover an old one. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an expert, it will be fun and friendly for all involved.”
To find out more about the choir please email contact Claire O’Shea on 02920 524407. 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
