The Stroke Association has been campaigning online, in the media and in local communities to raise awareness of the free support the charity can provide for stroke survivors, their families and carers.
In October, a UK-wide advertising campaign kicked off showing that stroke can happen at any age and those affected often struggle to cope with the trauma. This is certainly true of Scotland where almost 2,000 of the 10,803 strokes that happened to Scottish residents last year, happened to people aged under 60.
Stroke is unquestionably a trauma. When stroke strikes it can have a devastating impact on anyone affected. This includes people who have had a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA, often referred to as a ‘mini stroke’) who are just as likely to experience their face drooping, or being unable to move an arm, or communicate.
The Stroke Association’s message is clear – we are here for stroke survivors, and their loved ones, for as long as they need it. Online at stroke.org.uk/scotland, by phone on 0303 3033 100, and in local communities.
The charity’s website has a range of resources including a whole section on aphasia – communication difficulties – which affects one in three stroke survivors. There’s also online support including the Scotland Online Stroke Café where stroke survivors and carers are welcome to find strength through support.
There are also stroke support groups in Scotland that provide face-to-face support and a call to the helpline on 0303 3033 100 can pinpoint where they are. Again, stroke survivors and carers are welcome to join for information, support and a chance to chat to like-minded people.
For further information on the Stroke Association’s support in Scotland visit stroke.org.uk/scotland or email engagementteamscotland@stroke.org.uk
