I Am a Stroke Survivor, Not a Victim
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On February 6th, 2011, a brain stem stroke changed my life forever. This blog is my journey, from hospital and rehab to ongoing recovery, offered as encouragement for fellow survivors and carers.
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I chose to share my stories here, not for profit, but to show the power of faith, family, and resilience.
I dedicate this to my wife, family, friends, medical teams, and God, who carried me through.
This is my journey. This is survival.
The brainstem is located directly above the spinal cord. It helps control involuntary functions like heartbeat, breathing, and blood pressure. The brainstem also controls nerves used for eye movement, hearing, talking, chewing, and swallowing. Normal brainstem function is vital to survival.
A brainstem stroke happens when the brain’s blood supply is interrupted in this area. This type of stroke can result in death since the damaged brainstem can no longer control the body’s vital functions.
I had my brain stem stroke on an aeroplane back from visiting my daughter Sara in Australia. I found myself in a hospital in Dubai, locked in, only able to blink, frightened and unsure of how I would get home to the UK. ​
Right now, I am sitting at home, and although I use a powered wheelchair, I can walk short distances, travel the world, be completely independent, and love life. I can even ride a horse.
​I hope that this blog encourages, comforts, and educates people about this rare type of stroke—and most of all, offers 'Hope.'
My Stroke Story
Read about my journey - click on 'blog' in the menu for more
