Free talk for stroke patients in Laois

Stroke patients in Laois are being encouraged to join a series of free talks designed to support their recovery.

Three webinars organised by the national stroke and heart charity, the Irish Heart Foundation will focus on fatigue, trauma and personal experience.

The first of the online talks will take place on World Stroke Day on Tuesday October 29 at 12 noon, where stroke survivor Dermot Berry will share his personal journey on recovery following a spinal stroke in June 2018. 

On Wednesday 30 October Gary Broderick from the Learning Curve Institute, will delve into the practical aspects of implementing Trauma Informed Practice and its significance on recovery.

On Thursday 31 October Occupational Therapist Manager in Galway University Hospital and the National HSCP Lead for the Clinical Programme for Stroke Ciara Breen will present coping with fatigue from a heart condition or stroke. Ciara will reveal how to recognise heart or stroke-related fatigue and share practical tips and strategies to help manage this.

The webinars will be of interest to all patient supports services available through the Irish Heart Foundation, such as the Stroke Connect Service for newly discharged stroke patients, in-person stroke support meetings across the country, a Young Stroke Support Network, music and art therapy, weekly online exercise sessions and a Life After Stroke private Facebook group.

This World Stroke Day, the Irish Heart Foundation is highlighting the benefits of physical activity for stroke.

Irish Heart Foundation’s Head of Community Support Services Helen Gaynor said: “Being active is one of the best things you can do for your health, especially in the aftermath of a stroke. Research shows positive outcomes for stroke survivors who exercise, which include improved physical function, such as mobility, walking and balance, and improved mental function.

“Repetition is key and helps with you adapt to everyday living – learning fine and gross motor skills when exercising can help in daily chores, such as knowing which arm to use for picking up groceries in the shop.” 

Webinar admission is free but advanced booking is advised at irishheart.ie/support-for-you/patient-support-events/ 

To learn more about Irish Heart Foundation support services, visit: https://irishheart.ie