I felt invincible before stroke changed my life

By Ryan

I was a fit and healthy personal trainer, I was 32 years old, and felt “invincible” before a stroke changed my life.

Being young, active and having a history of migraines, my symptoms were initially dismissed.

When I woke the following morning I felt as if the whole right side of my body was paralysed. It was terrifying. I was dizzy, I couldn’t stand up and I just knew something was very wrong.

I soon found out that I’d had a stroke which has caused cognitive and physical deficits. A part of my brain that was impacted is the Thalamus which is responsible for the processing and transmission of sensory information. As a result, my brain produces painful and abnormal sensations and iv since battled with chronic nerve pain and fatigue as well as numbness and weakness throughout the right side of my body.

This experience has been a stark reminder that the unexpected can happen to anyone and at any age.

The journey to recovery hasn’t been easy, it’s extremely challenging and ever changing. As I navigate my new normal, I’ve come to realise the importance of being grateful and really appreciating what I have.

As a Personal Trainer, I have always had a genuine passion for helping others. I am more determined than ever to give back and it is the driving force behind everything that I do.

This year, I set out to raise vital funds for the Stroke Foundation riding 404km on a stationary bike and raising more than $3,000.

This November 25, I am hosting a fundraising event as part of Stride4Stroke in Cronulla NSW.

Having raised over $8,000 to date I hope to make a meaningful difference to prevent, treat and beat stroke.

You can follow my recovery on Instagram @paragon_fitt