Four Years Post-Stroke: Recovery, Resilience, New Possibilities

I hope my update can add to the voices reminding society that recovery and reinvention are possible even years after a stroke. 
I’m four years post-stroke, and like all survivors, recovery has been hard, non-linear, and emotional. Whilst I still face daily challenges, I can see the huge progress made since.

Recently I competed in the state athletics championships and improved my personal bests. I’m now aiming to work even harder to qualify for upcoming world-level events. I’m excited to see what the future holds, and deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way as I wouldn’t have achieved all that I have without their help.

Society can be quick to focus on survivors' limitations and negatives. I want to be part of changing this by encouraging hope, promoting progress, and investigating alternative options for survivors. Progress can be slow and sometimes feel like it’s moving backwards, but improvement is still possible through neuroplasticity and determination.

If you’re recovering from a stroke or supporting a loved one, please stay positive and keep going! Your journey will be different from someone else’s, and there may still be more ahead than you can imagine! (Photo credit: Donna's Piccies)