The Power of Sharing your Lived Experience
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Recently the Stroke Foundation shared my story Using Housework for Rehabilitation on FaceBook and the message certainly resonated with the stroke community.
Here are some of the posts-
Jennifer-I have started cooking again after 3 years. It is exhausting but I'm managing. When I started I could not even dice an onion. I've stopped peeling potatoes to make things easier for me. I used to depend on others to open a can for me. Today for the first time I opened a can of baked beans all by myself. Feeling very chuffed !!!
Pamela -That is brilliant. I know exactly where you are I have problems getting showered and dressed it does get easier. Initially I became so depressed I lost the use of my left side but it is coming back. Please never give up
Dan - Nice one, Brian!
I only had my stroke five months ago so I’m pretty near the start of my recovery journey and I lost my left side so luckily still have use of my dominant right side. I would still like use of my left and at times it feels like it’s making no progress but I keep trying. Your story is great and inspiring for me to persevere even more. Thank you and good luck!
Pat -Thanks for the testimony. I gained lots back after 4 years. I sort of accepted that I have progressed well enough.this story reinforces that my rehab is not over yet!
Barbara -I’m reading your story and your full determination on your recovery inspires me to push myself
Kevin -Yeah, keep it going. Keep trying. I had a right sided stroke which affected my left side really ironic because I was a natural southpaw before so that messed me up. I did quickly switch to doing everything with my right hand. I don’t believe in permanent plateau either. I had really good support from my company and union and I will hope to go back to work one day soon as a city bus driver in Vancouver. Just need to get the left hand working a little bit better and good to go. Not quite ready to retire yet only 62.
Sonia -You are very inspiring, keep doing never give up. We are the same person except we had a stroke. I am a stroke survivor 6 years still doing my best and rehab. God Bless you and give you the strength every day
Theresa -Thanks for sharing your ongoing stroke recovery! My whole world changed when I had my stroll 3/30/2025 just 5 days after robotic heart surgery. Left side is still completely numb and I am currently experiencing spasticity in my left leg and foot! I have learned many things that I’ve had to adjust and do it a different way. I still have to have my husband put on my jewelry and help me with lifting pots and pans! I’m thankful to be alive and I am walking! Again thank you for sharing!
Claire -Wow what an amazing recovery! Your determination and resilience over nine years is truly remarkable, thank you for sharing your story and inspiring others
Paul -Thanks for sharing your thoughts and very informative story. Keep moving forward one day at a time.I like your determination hats off to you.
Thank you Diana Kerr, Stroke Foundation for providing me with the opportunity to share my ongoing Rehab. You might find another of my blogs,A Long and Winding Road-My Post Stroke Rehab, also interesting.
Brian A Beh- A Stroke Survivor.