Lewis Organises Charity Dog Show Only a Year After Surviving Two Strokes

Lewis’ Story

“I suffered two simultaneous strokes a year ago, aged 33, on my way back from work on the train. The strokes caused seizures, luckily, a kind and quick-thinking off-duty nurse just so happened to be on the train and pulled the emergency cord and dialled 999. I was convinced this was “good night Vienna” for me.

I was rushed to UCLH Queens Square hospital where they worked their miracles. I was there for a week and then taken to my local hospital to convalesce for two more weeks. As it was during Covid I was in quarantine for most of my time there and it was the loneliest time of my life. I still remember looking up and counting the tiles of the ceiling (532 to be precise!).

I knew I was in trouble as the whole of my right side was paralysed. After that, I was transferred to Danesbury Neurological Centre (still in a wheelchair). My time there was very full on in all aspects of therapy. Despite the therapist’s optimistic and lovely output, I was told to manage my expectations about leaving there walking. That was like waving a red rag to a bull. I HAD to leave there walking!

On top of the full-on programme they had mapped out for me, I practised every spare minute that my severe fatigue would allow. Wiggling my big toe, turned into walking with a stick. 1 metre, turned into 2 and so on. Six weeks later I left there walking the 10 feet to my car. It was the hardest 10 feet I’ve travelled in my life. Blood, sweat and tears got me there.

I still suffer every symptom of a stroke survivor to this day in one way or another. But it won’t beat me – I won’t let it. My wife Charlotte has been amazing. Caring for me, whilst having had our baby girl just 4 months after it happened and caring for our 2-year-old as well. I’m very determined to get back to my city job but, in the meantime, I thought I would do something productive during my recovery.

I’m now organising the charity dog show at Silverleys Polo Club in Little Hadham on the 14th August 2022 to raise funds for Different Strokes. I will be glad to welcome fellow stroke survivors there to hear your story. Don’t forget to enter your furry family members!”

The Event

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As you can see the event looks incredible with everything from polo tournaments to high-profile judges! Lewis is kindly offering heavily discounted spaces for stroke survivors and their families from the Different Strokes Community. To claim your ticket turn up on the day and quote ‘Different Strokes’ or wear your Different Strokes T-shirt. For more information call 07703 193 744.

If this wasn’t amazing enough, Lewis has also set up a separate fundraising page for Different Strokes which has raised over £1,000 for Different Strokes in less than a week!

"It's truly inspiring that Lewis is thinking of others, despite having faced some heavy challenges himself over the last year. The vital funds he is raising will support families, like his own, who are impacted by the devastation of stroke with no warning. Lewis' story shows just how much determination and courage it takes to face recovery, not just for the stroke survivor but the whole family too. We are so grateful for his support and everyone who attends the event and supports his incredible efforts to make a difference."

Jo Aurora, Fundraising Manager, Different Strokes