I had a stroke in hospital

By Bill

Because of the type of procedure, I was having a spinal angiogram, I had been told that there was a risk of a Thalamic stroke, so I was acutely aware of any changes in my body.

When my arm started tingling, I let the Neurologist know and I was rushed in for a CT scan and treated straight away.

Even though I was treated quickly, the effects of the stroke have been considerable. I now walk with a stick; I have fatigue, some cognitive impacts and I have been hit for six emotionally - so I now live on antidepressants.

It goes to show how much the brain can be impacted in just a short space of time.

I am acutely aware that in many ways I have been lucky. I can still do everyday activities, but stroke nips at my heels continuously. I can't tie my own shoelaces, get things from the bottom drawer, all daily reminders of my new limitations.

Coming to grips with depression was very hard, I feel like I have a better handle on it, but every so often I get a wave of grief. And on really bad days, I allow myself the luxury of having a good old cry!

I have found stroke recovery is a bit of a paradox. There is amazing solidarity and shared experience within the stroke community, and at the same time we are all on individual and at times isolating journeys.

I would like more people to know that stroke and stroke recovery is different for everyone. Our brains drive everything that we feel, think and do, and the impact that stroke has is as varied as the people it strikes.