After the storm: a 13-year odyssey of recovery
Written and produced for the Heart and Stroke Foundation Centre for Stroke Recovery.
Before the storm...
"I was a land use planner and regional manager for the provincial government. I had to multi-task, conceptualize and communicate effectively. In my personal life, I liked to cook. I enjoyed good food and company. My wife and I liked to travel...."Then I had a stroke
" When I stabilized I had lost the use of my left arm and leg. I had difficulty reading and finding words. I was unable to eat solid food. My cognitive functions like memory and judgement were affected."Twelve years later, life is good
"I work out at a fitness club. I paint. My water colours have been selected by juries for exhibition. I cook. We entertain family and friends. We take courses. We travel. Most of all, we enjoy the simple activities of normal life: the ability to drive to an appointment, or simply to stroll through the neighbourhood to our favourite gelato bar."Joe Newton, Stroke Survivor