BLOG: A Stroke HIT volunteer abroad

I believe strongly that stroke recovery should address the whole person: their emotions, strengths, feelings and physical abilities. So while I was hesitant about travelling initially, I knew it was important that I take on a new challenge in my own recovery.

The European Life After Stroke Forum (ELASF) brings together people with lived experience of stroke, stroke healthcare professionals, researchers and academics, and policymakers from across Europe to meet, network and advance understanding of life after stroke.

My poster presentation is called ‘Volunteering for stroke Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) projects to aid rehabilitation after stroke’.  I wanted to give others an insight into the volunteering work I have undertaken for the Stroke HIT, Bristol After Stroke and for stroke research in various capacities, and how it has helped my recovery.

Also representing Bristol were Dr Jo White from the University of the West of England, alongside stroke survivor Akaaba Emmanuel Akino and his wife and carer, Sarah Akino. Together they presented a project about co-designing resources to help Black African and Caribbean communities manage the effects of stroke better.

Overall, there were lots of opportunities to share ideas, experiences and contribute, and although it was tiring, I came away with a great feeling of achievement.

Would I do it again? Definitely!  Everything was arranged for me – from travel to accommodation and even help with the presentation itself. I met so many lovely people, all with a common interest to improve the lives of those living with stroke.

Next year the ELASF will be in Krakow, Poland – see you there?