Press release -
Wirral volunteer receives regional recognition
A dedicated volunteer from the Wirral has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association, in recognition of his long-standing commitment to the charity.
Dan Phillips, 76, from Wallasey, joined the Stroke Association in 1996 as a volunteer with his local Communication Support Group for stroke survivors on the Wirral. In the 18 years since, Dan’s role has developed to incorporate everything from testing people’s blood pressure to delivering stroke awareness presentations. He also volunteers with his local communication support service, supporting stroke survivors with communication difficulties after stroke.
To date, Dan has checked more than 5,000 blood pressures at the Stroke Association’s Know Your Blood Pressure events. In 2014 alone, Dan took part in more than 30 events raising awareness about stroke prevention, the impact of stroke, and helping to generate funds.
Dan said: “The most rewarding and wonderful thing about volunteering with stroke survivors is when you see someone’s confidence start to grow and their communication skills improve. The smile on their face is worth a thousand hours of volunteering.”
Dan was nominated for the Volunteer Award by Laura McMullin, Events Officer at the Stroke Association. Laura said: “No task is too big or small for Dan. He is always willing to go the extra mile to support the charity and stroke survivors. Dan’s passion, enthusiasm and commitment have never faltered and he is always a true professional. We don’t know what we would do without him; the organisation as a whole has undoubtedly benefited from his continued compassion for our cause.”
Dan received his Highly Commended certificate at a celebratory event at the AJ Bell Stadium in Salford on Tuesday 15 September. His certificate was presented by Dr Khalil Kawafi, Consultant Stroke Physician and Clinical Lead at The Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, and actress and singer Danielle Hope, winner of the BBC talent contest Over The Rainbow.
Chris Larkin, Regional Director 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 local people 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. Next year’s nominations open on 02 November 2015.
For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA
Between 26 October and 01 November, the Stroke Association is calling on people to ‘Give a Hand’ and raise vital funds for the charity. To find out more, visit www.stroke.org.uk/giveahand.
Topics
Categories
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
