18 months following my stroke, I returned to work with the help of the Access to Work scheme. It was a long journey and there were many obstacles that had to be overcome. I had to learn to carry out all my duties without the use of my right hand as unfortunately I did not regain the movement of my arm. I also had to use my wheelchair some of the time. I felt however that I was finally moving on from my stroke. I can now think of some of the positives that have come from me having a stroke.
Q. Can you tell us about your life before your stroke?
Before my stroke I was financially secure earning a reasonable wage that allowed me to provide well for my family. This however had its downside as I:
- Worked 12 hours most weekdays and also had meetings on a Saturday.
- Rarely exercised, smoked 20-30 cigarettes a day and had a 1-2 pints each evening whilst waiting on train home from work.
- Rarely enjoyed family days out or attended school/social events. I was rarely around to support the wife with the kids.
- I always felt stressed.
- I suffered from high blood pressure, too busy to get checked regularly.
Q. Can you tell us about some of the positive changes to your life since your stroke?
Positives following my stroke:
- The stroke has made me think about what matters most to me.
- I’m enjoying being able to spend more time with family because I have shorter working days.
- I still have good days and bad days but I’m proud of the fact that I’m no longer smoking; I’m drinking less and I have started active health classes at the leisure centre.
- I have made many great friends from my local support group.
Key point
For more information on some of the things that helped Glen, please see: