Young stroke advocate wins national award

A Geelong North man, who created Australia’s first peer-led online community for young survivors of stroke, has won the Improving Life after Stroke Award at the 2022 Stroke Foundation Stroke Awards, announced today.

Caleb Rixon founded the GenYus Network in 2015. It now has more than 1,500 people involved including survivors, supporters, health professionals and researchers. 

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan congratulated Caleb on his award saying he was not only improving his own life and the lives of other survivors but he has created new and innovative ways to connect young survivors of stroke and create a positive force for change.

“Caleb’s work has helped people adjust to life after stroke. He is a fierce advocate, constantly challenging the message that those with newly acquired disabilities are somehow less than they were before.”

“Stroke can happen to anyone at any age. It strikes the brain and can change a life in an instant. It is estimated more than 142,000 survivors of stroke are of working age,” she said.

“Our community is enriched because of young people like Caleb, who are committed to sharing their knowledge to empower and enable others.”

The Stroke Awards celebrate the unsung heroes in our community who go above and beyond to improve the lives of Australians affected by stroke. This includes the survivors of stroke, carers, volunteers, fundraisers, health professionals and researchers and members of the community.

There are seven award categories in total: Stroke Warrior, Improving Life after Stroke, Creative, Courage, Fundraiser of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and President’s Achievement.

The Improving Life after Stroke category recognises those who voluntarily dedicate their time to improving the care and support of stroke survivors in the community.

It is proudly sponsored by the Australian Physiotherapy Association, the peak body representing the interests of Australian physiotherapists and their patients.

For more information about the risks and symptoms of stroke visit www.strokefoundation.org.au

Media contact: m) 0408 000 409 e) media@strokefoundation.org.au