From a stroke to the dance floor – how ballroom dancing helped me

By Stephen

When I had my strokes, a TIA in 2016 and then a stroke in June 2024, my life changed in an instant. I was traveling from Kalgoorlie to Perth for a job interview and then headed to Denmark, WA, to visit a friend. I had only been at her house for a few hours when I felt a huge weight pulling me to the left. I resisted as much as I could, but the force was too strong, and I was slowly pulled to the ground.

I ended up lying on my left side on the bathroom floor. It felt like I was being pulled right through the tiles. When my friend found me, I asked her to grab me a pillow and call an ambulance because I couldn’t stand. The paramedics arrived within 20 minutes, and I’m so grateful for my friend’s quick thinking.

The strokes left me with no use of my legs, and my left arm and hand wouldn’t work. Doctors told me I might never walk again. But I wasn’t ready to accept that. I started working hard, and within three months, I went from using a wheelchair to standing and then eventually walking.

The journey wasn’t easy. After being discharged from the hospital in Kalgoorlie, I didn’t have a home care plan, so I had to figure everything out on my own. I live alone, so even basic tasks were a struggle. I cut up a broom handle and jammed it against the glass and tiles in my bathroom, so I’d have something to hold onto to balance and help me to move around.

Financially, things were tough. My bank account quickly dwindled since I didn’t have a job. I was rejected by NDIS and Centrecare because I had a little money in the bank and wasn’t officially signed off as disabled. Thankfully, I found a great GP who signed me off as partially disabled, which helped me access my superannuation. That was a huge relief, and I plan to write a guide one day to help others navigate the same challenges.

I’ve always been a fan of boxing and martial arts, and I read that many fighters learn to dance to improve their footwork. That gave me an idea: why not try dancing to help with my balance, footwork, and thinking?

When I moved to Perth, I started researching dance schools and found Arthur Murray Dance Studio. That’s where I met my instructor, Bianca and her partner Vasile. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Every dance move has helped me improve my balance, coordination, and strength. What started as a way to correct my difficulties has turned into a passion.

This was taken last Saturday night at the Arthur Murray Dance Medal Night
I received an award after only 7 weeks dancing. Photo: Vasile, Bianca, Myself and Anna

Ballroom dancing has been incredible for me, both physically and mentally. It’s strengthened my legs and core, improved my balance and movement, and challenged my mind. Plus, it’s fun! I can run and jog now—if you can call it that! I highly recommend dancing to other people if they’re able.

I’m proud that I didn’t give up when doctors said I might never walk again. I proved them wrong. I’ve only had a few “woe is me” moments, and I think that’s something to be proud of too.

I wouldn’t be here today without the incredible people in my life.

To my friend Tarmara Miller: Thank you for respecting my dignity and being by my side when I had my stroke at your house.

To my dance instructor Bianca: Thank you for your kindness, humor, and for treating me like everyone else on the dance floor (even though I’ve probably stepped on your toes a few times!).

To my carer, Jaunita Fleming (Neta): You saved me when I was in a bad place. Moving to Perth and staying with you gave me the strength to keep going. Your kindness, support, and advice have meant the world to me.

Ballroom dancing has given me a new lease on life. It’s helped me heal, both physically and mentally, and it’s brought me so much joy. My journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m proof that with determination and the right support, you can overcome even the toughest challenges.

If you’re a stroke survivor, I encourage you to find something that brings you joy and helps you move forward. For me, it’s dancing. What will it be for you?