Watch five amazing Stroke Survivors as they share with you the changes and challenges, they faced following their stroke
That’s right Thrill Seekers and Fellow Time Travellers, Belgian Benny talks about his attitude to
physical activity: Brooke reflects on having a Stroke at 13; Shannon talks about her return to work
after a Stroke, Nick talks about his motivation and goals whilst Kevin talks about realistic
expectations after his Stroke.
All this and much much more is available at your fingertips on I-REBOUND, the innovative ‘after
Stroke ‘resource
.
Today gang you will get to see the true value of Lived Experience.
Before the curtain rises let us take a collective moment and reflect on the courage, resilience of
these Stroke Survivors and their willingness to share their views and experiences.
The challenges that they have faced and, in many cases, ultimately overcame in their daily lives are
worthy of your respect and admiration.
As many of you are aware of the nature of stroke, these challenges are perpetual which makes the
survivors’ efforts all that more special-and are examples of the highest levels of human seniority.
In previous epistles I have written on the visible aftereffects of Stroke, but that is only one aspect
often faced face by Stroke Survivors. So today I will highlight the ‘invisible’ aspects of stroke- those.
impacts that are visible to only the survivor. [My apologies to my fellow survivors if that is a clumsy
definition but that is the only words I can use\}.
As I have described Lived Experience in the following metaphorical manner many times previouslroke web-based portal-I-REBOUND.
Lived Experience is that splash of Extra Virgin Olive Oil on the verdant
lettuce and home-grown cherry tomatoes grown in Le Jardin de Beh.
Completes the offering!!
Here’s Belgian Benny and physical activity.
Ben talks about physical activity. He encourages a safe exercise environment when you first get home. Accept you will have good and bad days, listen to your body. Fatigue after stroke is common, do not feel guilty if you are tired, rest instead.
Brooke reflects on having a stroke aged 13.
In this video Brooke shares: the early stages after her stroke as a young healthy person. The physical and emotional challenges she had to overcome. The determination to not be defined by her stroke.
Shannon's return to work after stroke
Shannon shares her tips about returning to work after stroke including having a gradual return to work plan. Listen to your body and don’t push through.
Nick talks about re-defining his identity after stroke. He also explains how important setting goals is for him.
Kevin talks about realistic expectations after stroke.
Kevin talks about setting realistic expectations. Accepting that things are different after stroke but you can still do most things you did before stroke
The Genesis of I-REBOUND
The I-Rebound website has been developed by the Stroke Foundation and the University of Newcastle and co-designed with Stroke Survivors. It has been designed to reduce the risk of subsequent strokes by providing resources for eating well and moving more.
Professor Coralie English. University of Newcastle, who provides sage and strategic leadership to the I-REBOUND Project explains the objectives of this truly unique initiative. The website was funded by the Stroke Foundation (using funds from the Nancy & Vic Allen Stroke Prevention Memorial Fund Grant\}.
My Key Messages
Stroke Clinicians - These are further examples of how I-REBOUND can assist your Stroke Survivor. Spend time talking to them about these Lived Experiences of other Survivors. Share these stories with your Stroke Survivors.
Stroke Survivors/Carers - Help is now at hand. You are not alone. These stories, these Lived Experiences can help you in your daily life.
Remember an ancient Mayan saying-If you are seeking wisdom, look deep into the valleys, where it resides.
Brian A Beh, Stroke Survivor
Lifelong Member of the Hopalong Cassidy Fan Club
Poet, Philosopher and Child of the Cosmos
Winner "Improving Life After Stroke" Category
Stroke Foundation of Australia 2021 National Awards