Kirsty Ashton
I was admitted to hospital on 28 March 2005. Up until this time of my life I had suffered the odd hiccup within my life but nothing that has hit me like this.
Before this happened to me my moral in life was to live it to the full because you never know what's going to happen to us and I am glad that I did this. I used to love going out, being with my friends and spending time with my family and am determined to do everything that I used to do again one day.
It was the worst Easter Sunday of my life, I was at work, I worked in a pub. I was having quite a good night just felt not right in myself. I went to the toilet the next thing I remember was one of my friends shouting my name. I tried to stand up and couldn't, I was so scared. I had an idea what had happened because I had worked in care since been 16, but you never think it is going to happen to you.
I was in hospital 6 weeks and it was a rollercoaster journey plenty of ups and downs, tears, but I managed some laughter.
Now I have been out of hospital 3 weeks. I attend a rehab centre for physio and work with the ot's. My stroke effected the left side of my body. I can walk now with a elbow crutch for short distances which I am very proud of. It is my arm and my strength which is my main problem, but I am determined.
Emotionally I am finding it very hard, I havent got to grips with everything yet but its early days. I am hoping that writing this will help.
I am determined to get back to being the party girl I was and enjoying work!!!
Having a stroke has made me think differently about life and how precious it is!!!!!!
Thanks to Kirsty for sending in her profile. Anyone else who would like to share their story can send it along with a photograph (if you're not shy!)
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