"Valuable help and advice from the Stroke Team"

I had a stroke, following which I spent 2 months receiving treatment at the QMC, and then excellent rehabilitation at the City Hospital in Nottingham. I was discharged home, where my wife was able to care for me with the help of care providers. I was uncertain how I would cope back at home.

Within 48 hours of arriving home I was visited by Emma, a Physiotherapist with the Nottinghamshire County's  Stroke Team. Emma gave my wife and I valuable help and advice as we learnt how to use the rotunda to transfer from my bed to the commode and to the wheelchair. The County Stroke Team were invaluable in arranging delivery of essential items such as the hospital bed, the commode and a raised toilet seat. These were all delivered and fitted by the British Red Cross who have also been excellent. I have also received great help from Gavin, who is also a physiotherapist in the County Stroke Team. Emma and Gavin have been ably assisted by Julie who is a support worker.

 

I have received tremendous help and advice, and hands-on physiotherapy and other treatment from the Stroke Team since my return home. They have helped me get an exercise regime in place that has helped my recovery. Initially, I was unable to walk or use a toilet. Gradually, I improved so that I was able to use a toilet with the help of a handrail and a raised seat. Another handrail fitted outside my back door has enabled me to get into and out of the house.

The team have visited me on a regular basis and have worked hard to get me moving and back onto my feet again. They have done a brilliant job helping both my wife and I. After a month or two I was able to walk upstairs and sleep in my own bed with my wife, which was wonderful. My walking has improved with the use of a hiking pole. With practice I have been able to walk around my house and use the toilet independently. I can step outside and walk to the car. I have learned how to get into and out of a car again, though I do not drive. During the summer months I even managed to travel with my family to France by car for a holiday. I don't think I would have managed to do all of these things without the help and advice provided by the County Stroke Team throughout the months since I returned home from hospital.

The Red Cross have provided me with a swivelling bath chair and a handrail in our bathroom. These things have enabled me to have a proper shower standing up, which has been very exciting for me. It is now almost a year since I had my stroke. With the help of my wife and the County Stroke Team I have regained a great deal of independence, which is fantastic. I feel very fortunate to live in Nottinghamshire where we have such a great County Stroke Team.. We are very lucky !

I have told Gavin and Emma that I would be happy to offer support to other stroke patients who might benefit from talking to someone who has been through the recovery process. I am grateful for the care I have received and would welcome the opportunity to give something back.