Derry stroke survivors and carers hear ‘locked-in’ woman’s moving story

Stroke survivors and carers at a peer support event in Derry were inspired by a woman who rebuilt her life after a stroke left her with locked-in syndrome.

Clodagh Dunlop, from Magherafelt, was unable to move or speak for three months after a brainstem stroke when she was 35.

Clodagh shared her experiences at Stroke Association NI’s first Peer Support Event as part of its STEPS Emotional Support Service which offers emotional support and counselling for stroke survivors, carers and relatives impacted by stroke.

Róisín O’Connor, Stroke Association NI’s service delivery lead, said the well-attended event at St Columb's Park House, Derry, held in partnership with NI Chest Heart and Stroke, was a huge success.

“Clodagh spoke movingly about her stroke journey,” said Róisín.

“People see the physical effects of stroke but its emotional consequences can be even more devastating and we often hear how isolated survivors and carers can feel.

“This event gave stroke survivors and carers a chance to come together and spend time with others who understand just how difficult the emotional effects of stroke can be.

“Our STEPS service, which is supported by the Community Fund, aims to help people develop emotional resilience, readjust to life after stroke and reintegrate into community life.”

To find out more about the STEPS service and how it can help you, visit  www.stroke.org.uk and search for “STEPS Northern Ireland”.