Gwynedd stroke survivor says ‘I am more than my stroke’

57-year-old Heather Callow from Gerlan, near Bethesda was just 52 when she had a stroke in 2013, which left her struggling to walk.

Heather said:

“A stroke can turn your life upside down in an instant.

“On the day of my stroke in October 2013, I’d just had breakfast when my legs crumpled beneath me and I couldn’t move until my partner found me a few hours later.

“I had been really active, so it was such a shock to need help to do everything – to get myself up and dressed, make food and leave the house by myself.

“I can’t even remember the Christmas following my stroke, so this year I’ll be making the most of the time with my family and friends.”

There are around 7,400 strokes in Wales each year. Stroke continues to be a leading cause of disability and over 80 per cent of stroke survivors require help with daily living such as walking, washing, eating and communicating.

Heather had to take a leave of absence from her role as an administrator for Bangor University for a year. During that time she found great support from the Stroke Association’s Môn and Arfon Stroke Club, for which she’s now treasurer.

Heather said:

“I found the group’s support so helpful, especially in the early stages. You can feel very isolated after a stroke, so it was incredibly useful to talk to people who had had similar experiences.

“I also attend the stroke cafes in Llangefni and Bangor when I can. If I'm having a bad day they help me stay positive and I hope that sometimes I'm able to help other members in the same way.

“I’ve been left with weakness in one arm and I get tired very quickly. Cooking and getting dressed is a struggle and I’ve had to learn to do lots of things one-handed, so it’s great to speak to others who understand.”

Heather has also been inspired to get back to the gym, and even took part in the Stroke Association’s 5k Resolution Run in [KC1] for the first time this year.

Heather added:

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“I’m sure I can do it – it’ll be another way to prove that I am more than my stroke.”

This year’s 5k or 10k Anglesey Resolution Run will take place at Newborough Forest on 24 March 2019.

Carol Bott, Director of the Stroke Association in Wales, said:

“For many stroke survivors, rebuilding their lives after stroke is a long and challenging process. Stroke not only presents physical challenges, but the way it suddenly changes people’s lives and their plans for their future can also cause feelings of depression, anxiety and despair. However, we have seen that with the right support many people can be helped to live fulfilling lives following their stroke.

“As Wales’s only charity dedicated to supporting those affected by stroke, we help to address the emotional, practical and physical needs of stroke survivors and their families so they can achieve the best possible quality of life. However, we aren’t yet able to reach everyone who needs our help and that’s why our Christmas Appeal, ‘I am more than my stroke’ is raising essential funds so that we can be there for more people like Heather.”

To find out more about the help and support the Stroke Association offers and to make a donation to its Christmas Appeal visit stroke.org.uk/iammore.

For more information on the Môn and arfon Stroke Club, visit: https://www.stroke.org.uk/finding-support/mon-arfon-stroke-club

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