In the Senedd Chamber today, North Wales MS Mark Isherwood spoke of the traumatic impact a stroke can have on people's lives and called for everyone to spare a thought for all stroke survivors this Christmas.
In a 90 Second Statement, Mr Isherwood said that this Christmas Day, around 240 people in the UK will wake up to the life-changing impact of a stroke and referred to a survey of stroke survivors highlighting the impact on festive traditions.
He said:
"Research by the Stroke Association reveals the emotional and practical challenges stroke survivors face during Christmas. Almost half feel negatively about the festive season and 30 per cent feel like a burden to loved ones. Amongst those who've experienced a post-stroke Christmas, 66 per cent report frustration at being unable to do what they once could.
"There are over 85,000 people surviving a stroke annually in the UK, but recovery is long and gruelling. Mums, dads, grandparents, young people, even children - anyone can have a stroke, and its impact is traumatic.
"Brain damage caused by a stroke can leave survivors unable to move, see, speak or even swallow. A survey of 1,000 stroke survivors highlights the impact on festive traditions: 28 per cent could not cook Christmas dinner; 26 per cent could not visit friends or leave the house; 23 per cent could not decorate the tree; 19 per cent could not play with children or grandchildren.
"Ruth from Conwy describes the shock of her stroke at 36, the lack of support afterwards, and the emotional and financial pressure of her first Christmas post-stroke. Four years on, she feels more able to embrace the festivities with a new perspective.
"This Christmas Day, around 240 people in the UK will wake up to the life-changing impact of a stroke, which can cause paralysis, vision and speech problems, difficulty swallowing, personality changes and depression. So, let us spare a thought for them and all stroke survivors on this Christmas Day."
