There is life after stroke
To rehabilitate and reinstate positive qualities in survivors, the National Stroke Association of Malaysia will be holding the second edition of Stroke Games in October, writes Kasmiah Mustapha
THE National Stroke Association of Malaysia (Nasam) will be holding the second Stroke Games on Oct 19 and 20 at the National Panasonic Sports Complex in Shah Alam. The first was held in 2017 to mark its 20th anniversary.
The aim of the event is to boost the physical and mental health of stroke survivors through a range of sporting activities modified to suit their abilities.
The games were initiated to rehabilitate and reinstate positive qualities in stroke survivors as sports and games are crucial to healing the brain.
Nasam founder and chairman Janet Yeo says the games are a one-of-a-kind sporting event that showcases the amazing recovery and courage of stroke survivors.
It is a vital step to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding on the challenges faced by stroke survivors.
She says it takes great mental strength, tenacity and courage for people to want to live and return to society after a stroke.
While post-stroke effects are usually associated with physical disabilities, it also destroys confidence and greatly affects the emotional state of survivors.
“Being able to participate in sports is achieving an almost impossible feat. Through the games, we believe in making dreams possible, uplifting the spirit of stroke survivors and giving families a chance to see their loved ones rise again.”
Yeo, a stroke survivor herself, believes the games will increase stroke survivors’ competitiveness, boost confidence and help them achieve the impossible.
With restored confidence and pride, stroke survivors are able to handle their emotional issues better, start living again and appreciate a second chance.
“When they regain the passion to live again, they work hard to achieve goals, forget limitations and are driven to be winners. Nasam believes there is life after stroke and that the human spirit is still intact despite the damage brought on by a stroke.”
About 500 stroke survivors from Nasam’s nine clubs nationwide took part in the first Stroke Games. They competed in table tennis, darts, bowling, carom, obstacle walks, baton relays and basketball.
The games have been modified to suit stroke survivors’ abilities and stress levels. Nasam’s nine clubs are in Petaling Jaya, Ampang, Penang, Perak, Malacca, Johor, Kuantan, Sabah and Kedah.
Nasam hopes for a bigger and better event this year. As a non-profit organisation, it needs support from corporate players, organisations and the community.
To donate, sponsor or for more details on the Stroke Games, call 603 7956 1876 or email info@nasam.org.
Through the games, we believe in making dreams possible, uplifting the spirit of stroke survivors and giving families a chance to see their loved ones rise again. Janet Yeo