I had an acquired brain injury in December 2018.  It was a haemorrhagic stroke, The Killer One!  Statistically, 50% die within two days, whilst 85% die within a year.  The remainder have significant health issues.  In my case, a brain vessel pressure rupture caused a large diffuse bleed throughout the brain, killing millions of brain cells and neurones.  It caused significant damage.

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Four years later, I rehabilitated solo and brain recovery included skirting with the fringes of 'madness' and a second ischemic stroke.  BOGOF.  Buy one, get one free.

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I am now writing to tell you the impact that stroke and brain injury can have on your health and immediate family.  They will likely be your designated carers.  At all costs, take all steps to avoid a stroke.  That is my simple message.

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If you feel overweight, have high blood pressure, you are at an increased risk of a stroke.  One in four of us will have one.  Please take the opportunity to read below and take simple steps to avoid a stroke.  It may be that you have a history of high blood pressure in your family.  Please check.  You may be similarly at risk.  You can avoid Stroke.

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I will touch on the desperation of rehabilitation, as it is desperate.  Carers and stroke victims suggest a word describing how they feel.  It is abandonment.

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My illness included paralysis, acquired brain injury, ABI) and cognitive dysfunction.  It is to be expected from a haemorrhagic stroke.

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Stroke is the gift that keeps on giving.  I was alone, with no recommended carer and a pitifully inept, underfunded, uncoordinated NHS/Social Care model.

 

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Sammy Ba`

 

Sam Collard BoGoF