The latest government public health figures show that 1 in 6 people will have a stroke in their lifetime. Marie seeks to inspire and motivate those who have had a stroke and provide some insight by telling her story.
We decided to sit down and have a chat with Marie and her friend Peter to talk about what life was like before and after having a stroke.
Life before a stroke
Marie used to be a senior lecturer at a University. Her position was the Director of Professional Development. Prior to her position at the university, she travelled the world with British Council, lecturing on the topic of education. Marie lectured in countries such as the exotic South African state of Malawi, oriental China, and vibrant India.
As a Senior Lecturer Marie developed, managed, and monitored postgraduate and undergraduate programmes. This included associated operational administration, curriculum development and quality management and enhancement. Marie worked directly with associate deans and the head of school/departments. This was to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of teaching programmes in accordance with university standards and policy. Alongside these duties, Marie’s responsibilities also included undertaking research activity and engaging in enterprise activities. Marie’s role as a senior lecturer was truly varied and rewarding. Marie enjoyed her time as a lecturer and has, over the years, amassed several fond memories.
Recovery Process
It was a very bad stroke, Marie was spending Christmas with her brother-in-law at the Duncan Horse hotel near Accrington when she had her Stroke on Christmas Day. She was then taken to the Blackburn Royal Infirmary. She was there for some time as it was a very bad stroke.” “If I’m correct I think Marie had an Ischemic stroke which was probably an aneurysm. It caused the disability and the speech she has now. At the time it was more severe than that. She couldn’t speak at all. It sadly rendered her with right-sided paralysis as she had a stroke in the left hemisphere of her brain. Marie has recovered now, very much so and we’re happy that this is the case. Marie however still has problems with her arm which is still paralysed and also her speech, which is still affected by the stroke.
An article from healthline.com identifies the typical recovery process for someone who has experienced an ischemic stroke. Rehabilitation is often necessary to regain motor skills and coordination. A trio of therapy is needed to help regain lost functions. Occupational, physical, and speech therapy is required to help improve quality of life.
If any issues are still present after a year, they’ll likely to be permanent.
Hobbies and life after having a stroke
I read a lot. I love shopping, I like it a lot. I’ve been many times. Real shopping! I also like going out to the pub. After having a stroke I’ve also visited theme parks like Chester Zoo. I enjoy movies, so I go to the cinema. I also enjoy going out for a meal which may include a glass of red wine.
Her friend Peter continued the conversation by saying: “Marie had a very severe stroke, but she’s tried to make the most out of life afterwards. She enjoys a lot of different activities. After her stroke, she even travelled to Ireland 3-4 times with a Carer. She travelled there by plane.”
“Marie isn’t daunted by anything. If there is a challenge present, she would try to beat it. As we have been saying Marie is living her life to the fullest. Obviously, it’s a life that is restricted by the stroke, but it doesn’t get Marie down.”
“Marie did move from a nursing home into a care home, then into sheltered accommodation, and then finally into her own little flat here; which she’s very proud of and has worked hard to achieve.”
Peter finished our discussion by stating: “Marie works hard to live independently and even though Marie still needs a minimum of care, her quality of life is all down to her hard work. After spending 2-3 months at the rehabilitation unit, Marie was determined to make the most out of what her life offered.”
Final thoughts from Marie and Peter
Marie now lives as independently as she can in the comfort of her very own flat. Through the assistance of our amazing team of carers, Marie is now surrounded by her own belongings and has the freedom to do what she wants, when she wants. To find out more, view about our services.