What I have to teach health services about stroke

By Clive Kempson 

After sharing my story with the Stroke Foundation in July 2017, the Manager of the Cranbourne Rehabilitation Facility sent my story to Monash Health.

The response from Monash Health staff and executives was extremely positive, and provided me with an opportunity to give back - to help improve stroke services for others.

“Great to hear the improvements Clive has made and his journey returning to independence with support across the continuum of care. “ -  Head of Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology 

I was asked to talk about my stroke journey and my experience in hospital at an upcoming physiotherapy planning day for inpatient care. I was very nervous, but I recognised that what I had to contribute was a perspective that had real value.

This opportunity ignited in me a hope that I could make a positive difference.

Preparing for the presentation was challenging, I read over my story again and again, but my anxiety was my biggest hurdle. Having a goal to provide a positive story to survivors and their families, and the support from the team at Monash Health helped to build my confidence in the lead up.

On the day I answered questions from physiotherapists about my care as an inpatient. I talked about a range of topics including, methods to communicate with patients, how to explain information to survivors and their families, and what I think could have been done differently.

After my presentation it really struck home how important it is for allied health professionals to get a chance to talk to survivors and their families about their stories. We have a wealth of knowledge through our lived experience that can’t be learned from text books. I’m glad that Monash Health gave me the opportunity to share my story. 

I’m really proud of myself for finding the courage to talk to health professionals about stroke and I look forward to doing more.