A time of reflection following a stroke

While the last few months have been very difficult time it has also been a period of reflection and recovery for stroke survivor Bob Sutcliffe.

Bob, who has his 89th birthday in a couple of weeks, was quickly able to get back into some of the things he enjoys including life in the garden and playing lawn bowls.

“Only yesterday I mowed the lawn and clipped the hedge,” Bob said.
“It gives me such satisfaction to do things around the home and regain some of my independence.”

While it is one step at a time following his stroke in June, Bob is doing extremely well.

And, not surprisingly, he is one of those compassionate people who can’t help but thank and praise others while he is still recovering himself.

“I recognise now following a stroke, the importance of the people, family and health teams around me who have helped me get better,” he said.

“These people are being put under so much stress when they have to look after someone who has had a stroke or who require ongoing care and support.”

Bob said he had always seen himself as the carer, but since his stoke it has been a period of growth and reflection.

“I am so fortunate to have my family at home and the Community Based Rehabilitation Team who have helped me,” he said.

“I am fortunate to have had all these people around me.”

Following his stroke few months ago, Bob was rushed to the Redcliffe Hospital for immediate and timely care, which has made a big difference in his recovery.

“At the time I lost sensation down my left side and had difficulty doing normal tasks such as dressing myself,” he said.

“I was in Redcliffe Hospital for about two weeks before I returned home.

“I can’t be more impressed by the quality of care I received from all the staff at Redcliffe Hospital. I was very impressed by the whole team.”

When Bob was well enough to return home he was referred to the Community Based Rehabilitation Team (CBRT) which provides care in the community for people rehabilitating after a stroke, or neurodegenerative or orthopaedic conditions.

Bob set some goals as part of his recovery including dressing, cooking, mowing the lawn, getting back to playing lawn bowls and riding his bike. All of which he has now done with support from his family and his care team.

“I really appreciate the help from the CBRT whether it was the occupational therapist, physiotherapist, speech pathologist or social worker, or even the receptionist who made me feel very comfortable.”

National Stroke Week 2022 is about celebrating the precious moments that you or your loved ones can continue to enjoy during and after their recovery.

Help others to keep enjoying precious moments too by sharing the F.A.S.T. (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) signs of stroke message with your family and friends.

If you or someone you know experiences the signs of stroke, no matter how long they last, call triple zero (000) immediately.

The Community Based Rehabilitation Team (CBRT) is part of the Metro North Health.