Patient Story: Derek (Stroke)

Derek suffered a severe stroke on Christmas Eve. He was previously very independent, living with his wife, Val, in Nottingham.

His stroke left him with no activity through his left side, no sensation, and an inability to determine where midline was. Functionally, he was unable to move around in bed, gain any degree of sitting or standing balance. Derek had a significant period of inpatient rehabilitation and was discharged from hospital about 4 months after his stroke. He lived downstairs and was hoisted into a specialist wheelchair for short periods of time where he was only safe sitting when the chair was reclined.

After discharge from hospital, he had a short period of community NHS therapy. His wife became his main carer and now provides for all his care needs. An overhead gantry hoist was installed by the Red Cross to enable Derek to get into his chair. He was discharged from community NHS therapy after about 3 months and given some exercises to practise.

At this stage, Val contacted PWYA. Derek was very weak, had significant sensory deficit and a low level of function, making it very heavy for Val to manage him. The initial goals were to enable Derek to experience and learn what midline was, and to learn how to sit on the edge of the bed unsupported.

Treatment involved realignment and activation of muscles, taking Derek through different positions to provide new sensory information, and re-educating his brain on muscle activation and movement following principles within the Bobath concept using the environment within the home.

It is now 3 years since Derek had his stroke. Derek and Val do not falter in their commitment to his rehabilitation; they continue to practise daily. Derek can now achieve a rotunda-transfer with help from one person. This has significantly helped Val move Derek around at home and get him seated more comfortably in an armchair. He still has more to achieve and has walked with 2 therapists.

Derek and Val continue to work hard. Derek continues to improve, overcoming all odds, to demonstrate what is possible.

All credit to you Derek and Val. Well done, and keep up the excellent work.