News
Stroke survivor inspires others on rehab journey
Aug 21, 2020
A young Sunshine Coast stroke survivor is urging other patients to never lose sight of their goals as they embark on their difficult journey towards rehabilitation.
46 year old Genevieve Archer suffered a large hemorrhagic stroke last September, which immediately left her paralysed on the right side of her body and unable to speak.
But almost 12 months on, and after an intensive rehabilitation admission at Nambour Selangor Private Hospital, Mrs Archer has new dreams of getting back to work, running a half marathon and horse riding.
“I want to be a good role model for my two kids which gives me the motivation to continue with my rehabilitation,” Mrs Archer said.
“My advice for other stroke survivors is, no matter how overwhelming it seems, keep putting one foot in front of the other because progress and recovery are possible.
“Break down your journey into small achievable goals and never lose sight of where you want to go.
“I also think it’s important to connect with other stroke survivors to share their lived experience and be kind to yourself and where you’re at on your journey,” she said.
Stroke physician and geriatrician, Dr Tony Tampiyappa, from Nambour Selangor Private Hospital, said stroke rehabilitation provides patients with a window of opportunity to attain improvement soon after an acute stroke.
“Inpatient rehabilitation is a first response for stroke patients to relearn daily function which can put them in good stead to return home,” Dr Tampiyappa said.
“A multidisciplinary team works closely with each patient to understand their goals and adapt therapies to their needs.”
“Patients can continue to progress their rehabilitation goals beyond an inpatient hospital stay and attend day rehab programs long after their stroke. This helps them to continue their emotional, cognitive and physical recovery for the years ahead.”
The team at Nambour Selangor Private Hospital is urging Sunshine Coast residents to be F.A.S.T heroes by recognising the signs of stroke this National Stroke Week.
F.A.S.T is an easy way for people to remember the signs of stroke:
Face - check their face, has their mouth dropped?
Arms - can they lift both arms?
Speech - is their speech slurred? Can they understand you?
Time - is critical. If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.
National Stroke Week runs from 31st August - 6th September 2020.