Press release -
Stoke-on-Trent stroke survivor receives regional recognition
A stroke survivor from Stoke-on-Trent has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association in recognition of her courage and determination.
Stephanie Bradeley, 40, had a major stroke in November 2013 and her family was told she may not survive. The stroke left Stephanie with limited mobility in her left side and she underwent a craniectomy before having a plate fitted in her skull. Before her stroke, Stephanie was very independent, working full time as an administrator and spending time with her 12 year old daughter Ellie, her family, and friends.
After being discharged from hospital five months after her stroke, Stephanie moved in with her father where she required the help of carers four times a day, and had to use a wheelchair when outdoors. In June 2014, Stephanie had to have the plate in her skull removed after it became infected. However, Stephanie can now walk with a stick indoors, and in January this year she returned to her own home with Ellie, thanks to modifications made.
Stephanie was nominated for the Adult Courage Award by Maureen Speed, Information Advice and Support Coordinator at the Stroke Association, who has supported her throughout her recovery.
Maureen said: “Stephanie has been incredibly determined throughout her recovery. Despite the devastating effects of her stroke, she has shown great courage and has continued to play a very active role in her daughter’s life. She has focused on overcoming her challenges to regain a good quality of life again for them both. She is a real inspiration.”
Stephanie said: “It feels brilliant to be nominated for a Life After Stroke Award. Although my family and friends have always encouraged me and told me how well I’m doing, it means so much to be recognised for all the hard work I’ve put in throughout my recovery. It helps me appreciate just how far I’ve come.”
Stephanie 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 Stephanie 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
