The Downstream Effect of My Left Lacunar Stroke.
A somewhat strange theme associated with my Stroke writings…but stay with me it will become clearer later in this epistle
Thrill Seekers and Fellow Time Travellers, Greetings, recently I attended a Workshop conducted in trendy [but nice] downtown Newtown in Sydney.
I was invited by an organisation to join its Steering Committee to review funding proposals for several clinical trials and research projects submitted by various institutions in the Australian medical landscape.
The Workshop – In More Detail
The research proposals discussed at the Workshop were varied and touched on a broad spectrum of clinical opportunities within Australia’s current research landscape. As a result, several were chosen to be submitted to the organisation’s Executive Committee for potential funding.
Why am I telling you this, Gang.
During the day in a quiet moment,I could only sit and wonder about how far I have travelled in terms of my involvement in the field of clinical research.
The Downstream Effect of My Stroke.
First, a definition of the expression Downstream Effect in the context of this workshop. A downstream effect is a consequence, result, or outcome that follows from an action, event, or decision. In my case,
I was thinking about the impact of my stroke in 2016.
The phrase Downstream Effect came to mind during the workshop, prompting me to pause and reflect on how much I’ve grown in my involvement in the clinical research space since my experience in 2016.
My journey began nearly a decade ago when Associate Professor Simone Dorsch invited me to share my stroke story with her final-year physiotherapy students at the Australian Catholic University’s North Sydney campus.
From that engagement my activity has grown into the level of activity it is today - my daughter recently said the I should hire a PA to manage my diary.!
Since that date, I’ve taken part in numerous clinical trials as both a consumer and an investigator[ both heere and The UK], participated in webinars,on motivation, neuroplasticity, joined discussion and focus groups, spoken to over 2,600 student clinicians at three universities, drafted grant applications, developed survey questions, created communication protocols for consumer recruitment in clinical trials, and written more than 80 blogs on stroke and related topics.
Why this workshop?
What drew me to this workshop was the chance to use my management consulting experience, critical thinking expertise, and strategic planning skills in a way that felt relevant and valuable.
As I reflected quietly It truly has been an amazing journey – But Thrill Seekers and Fellow Time Travellers, this blog is not intended to be indulgent by any means.
I don't wish it to be!
This serves as a clear indication that, if one is truly committed, it is entirely possible to become actively involved and effect meaningful change, not only in relation to stroke but also across various other important areas.
My Key Message to Stroke Survivors
Opportunities are available to you if you want to get involved in research.
Simply click on Stroke Foundation-Research, and you will find details on research projects that are seeking your assistance
You will never know where the journey will take you!I am living proof of that and the satisfaction that I derive from these activities is something that I could never have imagined.
Brian A.Beh - A Stroke Survivor.