Bus enthusiast and author wins national Stroke Award
May 07, 2020
Inspirational Padstow stroke survivor and bus enthusiast Tony Finneran has been recognised in the 2020 Stroke Foundation Stroke Awards.
The 62 year old has been announced today as the winner of the Creative category after writing six books on Australia’s bus and coach industry. His books raised more than $38,000 for the Stroke Foundation.
Tony suffered a severe stroke in 2013.Tony had to learn to walk, feed himself and communicate following the stroke. Tony worked incredibly hard on his recovery.
“Creating my first book became part of my rehabilitation because I needed to re-learn to use a computer,” Tony said.
“It has been a joy to write my books. I don’t think I would have achieved this goal if I didn’t have a stroke.”
The Stroke Foundation Stroke Awards recognise the unsung heroes of stoke – the stroke survivors, carers, volunteers, health professionals and researchers who continually go above and beyond to make a difference to help people with stroke and their families live well.
Tony said winning the Creative Award was an honour.
“I hope I can inspire other people to strive for a productive and fulfilling life after stroke,’’ Tony said.
“I have another book in the works and I am thrilled I am able to give back to the Stroke Foundation to continue its important work to support stroke survivors and their families.”
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan congratulated Tony on his award.
“Tony has achieved so much since his stroke with a positive mindset, resilience and sheer determination. These books are an incredible feat and highlight what is possible,” Ms McGowan said.
“I also want to commend Tony for his selflessness and generosity in donating proceeds of his books to Stroke Foundation to help us in our mission prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery.”
Almost 60 people were nominated for a Stroke Award this year across six categories.
The 62 year old has been announced today as the winner of the Creative category after writing six books on Australia’s bus and coach industry. His books raised more than $38,000 for the Stroke Foundation.
Tony suffered a severe stroke in 2013.Tony had to learn to walk, feed himself and communicate following the stroke. Tony worked incredibly hard on his recovery.
“Creating my first book became part of my rehabilitation because I needed to re-learn to use a computer,” Tony said.
“It has been a joy to write my books. I don’t think I would have achieved this goal if I didn’t have a stroke.”
The Stroke Foundation Stroke Awards recognise the unsung heroes of stoke – the stroke survivors, carers, volunteers, health professionals and researchers who continually go above and beyond to make a difference to help people with stroke and their families live well.
Tony said winning the Creative Award was an honour.
“I hope I can inspire other people to strive for a productive and fulfilling life after stroke,’’ Tony said.
“I have another book in the works and I am thrilled I am able to give back to the Stroke Foundation to continue its important work to support stroke survivors and their families.”
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan congratulated Tony on his award.
“Tony has achieved so much since his stroke with a positive mindset, resilience and sheer determination. These books are an incredible feat and highlight what is possible,” Ms McGowan said.
“I also want to commend Tony for his selflessness and generosity in donating proceeds of his books to Stroke Foundation to help us in our mission prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery.”
Almost 60 people were nominated for a Stroke Award this year across six categories.