Talented Tiana honoured with national award
A young Melbourne girl who has overcome three strokes has been recognised at the 2024 Stroke Awards.
Tiana Ekpanyaskun, who was just 10 at the time of her third and most devastating stroke, has been named the winner of the Creative Award.
A talented musician, Tiana began playing the piano when she was three and picked up the violin when she was seven. After her stroke, Tiana had to re-learn to walk and her family feared she may never play music again.
Early last year, Tiana was accepted into the Melbourne Youth Orchestra’s Adaptive Music Bridging Program. She was able to resume playing the violin using a modified instrument, with a chin rest developed using a 3D printer, a grip aid on her bow, and reversed strings which allow her to rest the violin on her right shoulder.
Late last year, Tiana auditioned for, and was accepted into the Melbourne Youth Junior Strings ensemble. She will perform in her first concert with them in a few weeks.
Tiana now uses music as her own form of therapy. Her dad Vincent said he couldn’t be prouder.
“Tiana has always been a happy, loving, and funny girl who makes people laugh. She works so hard with all her rehabilitation therapies. I think trying to learn to play reversed violin has given her focus to achieve a goal, among other things, and boost her confidence,” Vincent said.
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, researchers, and members of the community.
The Creative Award category recognises survivors of stroke contributions to creative industries.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, applauded Tiana on all that she has achieved.
“I am thrilled to hear that Tiana has been able to return to the hobby she is so passionate about,” Dr Murphy said.
“Tiana is such a resilient and talented young girl. Despite everything she has faced, she has shown great determination in returning to music. She’s a very deserving recipient of this award.”
The finalists for the Creative Award were:
- Tiana Ekpanyaskun – Victoria
- Erin Pocervina – Victoria
- Luke Mann – South Australia
There are eight categories in total: Warrior, Improving Life After Stroke, Creative, Courage, First Nations Stroke Excellence, Fundraiser of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and President’s Achievement.
The 2024 Stroke Awards are supported by Medtronic, Abbvie, Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), Ipsen, , NAB, Precision Connect and Worrells.
