​Petersfield stroke survivor receives regional recognition

A stroke survivor from Petersfield has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association in recognition of her dedication, commitment and compassion to volunteering.

Karen Pritchard, 58, had a stroke in 2006. Karen said: “I know what it’s like to live the impact of having a stroke. One of the hardest things for me to have to deal with is not having the ability to remember my children’s childhood and other memories that make up who I am. After my stroke, I didn’t know who I was and that had a huge impact on my confidence.

“The Stroke Association inspired me to regain that lost confidence. I have since trained as Stroke Ambassador for the charity, and have found the courage to stand up and speak in front of people and be proud of who I am again.”

The Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Award was presented to Karen at a ceremony at the Hilton hotel in Bournemouth on 17 January 2019.

Esme Mutter, Head of Stroke Support for the Stroke Association in the South, said: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in the South 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.

“Karen has played a vital part in campaigning for the charity and being a voice for local stroke survivors. In 2016 Karen became one of our most active campaigners, and was instrumental in helping us petitioning the Government to renew the National Stroke Strategy for England. Karen handed the 55,000 petition signatures we had collected into David Amess MP, and spoke to MPs and Lords about her experience of stroke and why a new national plan is so important. We couldn’t had done what we did without Karen, and cannot thank her enough for her dedication, commitment and passion to support local stroke survivors.”

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.

To find out more about the Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Awards, please visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA