“Following my stroke, I was completely paralysed down my left side and I had to have a thrombectomy to remove the blood clot from my brain. It was then discovered I had a hole in my heart (PFO) and I had to have surgery to close the hole. I didn’t have any symptoms or warning signs and I was completely fit and healthy.”
“The last year has been tough, I’ve had to learn to walk again and I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety. Different Strokes have really helped me with my recovery, the group and people are so supportive and are always on hand to help or support, it’s such a lovely group of survivors. It is very important when people have mutual interests. They are always interested in talking about these topics and discussing possible new interesting things.
I love that Different Strokes helps support and raise awareness of specifically younger stroke survivors like myself. I really wanted to do something to help support and give something back to such an amazing charity. I wanted to help other people like me, that are either on or just starting out on their own personal stroke journey. Rather than focus on the trauma and pure hell of what I’ve been through, I wanted to put my energy into something positive on the one-year anniversary of my stroke.”
“The fundraiser was my first social outing since my stroke and it was a massive personal achievement. My good friends from my local pub hosted and kindly let me use their bar area and function room. We had two raffles with cash and gift prizes that were generously donated by friends and family. We also had a live lounge with musicians playing live music throughout the evening. My dad made wooden reindeers that he sold and all of the money collected is going to the charity. We raised over £800 for Different Strokes. Everyone was asking about next year so it looks like it may turn into an annual fundraising event – so watch this space to see how we go bigger and better next year!”
“The advice I’d give to anyone with a stroke anniversary coming up, is to try and plan something on the day that makes you happy or that you enjoy. To make new, positive memories of such a terrible day. I found the build up to it and the few days before were worse than the actual day. The day itself wasn’t too bad and with organising the fundraiser it kept me busy and motivated, as I’m very passionate about helping support younger stroke survivors like myself and raising awareness.”
Different Strokes is delighted to announce the return of its Glasgow Peer Support Group, providing a welcoming space for working-age stroke survivors, their families and
On Saturday 18th July, over 100 people gathered in Northamptonshire to mark 30 years of Different Strokes. Reclaiming Life After Stroke The day opened with
Free Webinar | Wednesday 22 July | 11:00am When someone you love has a stroke, life can change in an instant. Partners, spouses and family
During June we hosted a Community Event in London at the offices of Bolt Burdon Kemp.
Different Strokes is pleased to be partnering with specialist medical negligence law firm Fletcher’s Solicitors to offer a free online webinar for stroke survivors, families and carers.
Mike Caines Wins Different Strokes’ Outstanding Contribution Award 2026 For the past 14 years, Mike Caines has been a quiet constant behind Different Strokes. He
