At the World
Stroke Organization, our work with patient stroke support organizations (SSOs) promotes
the voice of people affected by stroke in our activities,
including the World Stroke Congress and the World Stroke Campaign.
We recognise
that people affected by stroke have unique insights into the experience of
having a stroke, the effects, the care received and long term needs. These
insights can and should inform stroke policy development and service provision.
We also know that the voice of stroke survivors adds legitimacy to our advocacy
work.
We work
closely with our SSO members to capture and share stories from stroke
survivors, carers and family members. These stories detail the lived experience
of having a stroke, the effects and the impact on peoples’ lives. Often these
stories include reflections on individual behaviour and making changes to
reduce stroke risk. All the stories are deeply personal, and can describe
feelings of pain, fear, confusion and also hope; a new normal and strength.
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| Credit: Stroke Foundation Australia |
Recently to
mark World Hypertension Day, Sharon McGowan, CEO of the Stroke Foundation
Australia and also Co-chair of the SSO Committee at the World Stroke
Organization, shared her own story. ‘I thought long and hard about sharing my own
health story. I was encouraged by the many stroke survivors who generously
share their stories to encourage, educate and support our community. If just
one person reads this and takes action to get their blood pressure checked then
sharing my shamefully unhealthy past will be worth it’.
As a champion
for the voice of people affected by stroke, by sharing her own personal story,
Sharon is a great role model to others, and has added a deeper appreciation at
the World Stroke Organization of the courage it takes for people affected by
stroke to share their personal experiences so openly.
If you would
like to add your voice and experience to the World Stroke Organization’s work
to raise awareness of stroke, please contact the International Development Manager, Sarah Belson sarah.belson@stroke.org.uk
