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Surviving a Stroke

Surviving a Stroke

Our reporter Kevin Cummings recently suffered a stroke. He describes himself as stubborn. Some would say he's determined. Read his article and judge for yourself.

You can accept, adjust, then accept again. Remember that it's okay not to be okay.

Aphasia is a language disorder caused by damage to parts of the brain that control speech and understanding of language. It doesn't mean you're not intelligent. Your brain just decides to introduce other words into the conversation.

I've had a stroke, but I know that I can still do and understand things. It'll be a bit harder and take longer but I'll get there.

It's okay to be independent but this still allows you to ask for help or advice.

I can't always open a yoghurt pot, but I've replaced a diaphragm to fix a broken toilet. It's all relative. You need to celebrate your successes and accept your difficulties.

It's easy to focus on the negatives. Frustration is normal when tackling some things whether it's reading, writing, decorating, woodwork or, for me, crossing the road. Due to my sight issues, I have to be patient.

Everyone is different. Just be you and don't compare yourself to other stroke survivors. You'll be better or worse than some but you're here and your family and friends are happy that you are. 

Love yourself and don't worry too much - you are you and you're doing okay.

Setbacks are just that, setbacks not stops. Two steps forward and one step back is still a step forward. I often fall over but I get back up again and that's the main thing.

Stroke - Recovery - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

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