James rebuilds his life after suffering stroke
56-year-old is so grateful to charity
A Stirlingshire man who suffered a stroke more than five years ago has been rebuilding his life with assistance from a leading charity.
James Boyle of Denny had his life turned upside down after he experienced a haemorragic stroke at Christmas 2013.
The 56-year-old had dad-of-three had just started his own plumbing business, but had to give it up as he couldn’t talk or walk.
He said: “You know what you want to say and you think you’re saying what you mean to say, but the words don’t come out as they should. It was the most frustrating thing. I was devastated.”
After the stroke hit James received hospital treatment quickly thanks to his son 22-year-old Connor, an ATC trainer in first aid, who had recognised the symptoms.
The left side of his dad’s body was totally paralysed.
Following the stroke James received occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech and language therapy.
However, when he returned home he experienced fatigue and emotional problems and was admitted to hospital again for mental health difficulties.
But things have been improving for James after taking part in the Stroke Association’s ‘Moving Forward After Stroke’ exercise programme which is run in partnership with Active Stirling. Last year James completed a 12-week course which comprised exercise and education on how to avoid a stroke.
James, who also has a 14-year-old daughter Saorcha (14) and son Keir (17), has also started befriending for a mental health charity and runs The Falkirk and District Association for Mental Health fishing group which, he said, has given him his confidence back. He added: “The Moving Forward After Stroke exercise programme has been great for both my physical and mental health.,
“It is great to feel more active and I now go to the PEAK gym regularly. The information session on nutrition has made me take positive steps in my diet and I am encouraging my kids to eat in the same way too.”
According to new findings published this week by the Stroke Association – The Lived Experience of Stroke – many of those who have survived stroke have developed at least one mental health problem like depression and anxiety.
Stroke Association Scotland director Andrea Cail said: “The charity’s latest findings demonstrate how stroke changes lives in an instant. Overnight, a partner becomes a carer.
“A breadwinner becomes jobless. And as a result, roles within relationships are turned upside down. It’s a real challenge for everyone as they come to grips with this sudden and life-changing event.”