An anniversary cake was cut by
founder members Derek Short and Mary Convery, this was followed by a
delicious lunch served by Joanne Loughrin.
South Derry woman Mary Convery was there at the group’s formation 25 years ago and has watched its growth over the years.
Mary, who was working
in nursing home Milesian Manor in Magherafelt, was contacted by the in
house speech and language therapist about setting up a stroke support
group.
It all started when Mary was put in contact with a young man in his 40s who had fallen out of his lorry.
He had brain damage and his speech was affected.
“It was sad seeing a
younger man struggling. He often got frustrated that he couldn’t do what
older members of the groups were able to do,” Mary said.
From then on Mary
started taking local people who had suffered a stroke to the group in
Cookstown. The stroke survivors group meet every Tuesday in the First
Presbyterian Church, Cookstown. At the moment there are 23 members.
The members’ ages range from early 40s to 80s.
The group covers Maghera, Magherafelt, Cookstown and all the outlying areas of Mid Ulster.
Mary continued: “The
group offers the chance for people to share their stroke story and have a
sense of community. It helps people not feel isolated. They will have a
cup of tea, biscuits, sandwiches and have a different programme
activity planned for each week.
“There are all
different walks of life that come to the group, from farmers to
teachers. Stoke doesn’t discriminate. It can affect anyone at any time.”
Reflecting on the progression of the group, Mary said she is very proud of group member Diane.
“Diane had her first stroke at 34. She won an award for young stroke survivors a few years back,” said Mary.
“It’s amazing to see
how the members progress in their time in the group. When they first
come they can be withdrawn and shy but they soon get chatting to each
other. The group is a good way to build their confidence and compare
notes on their different experiences.”
Mary said the group’s members have built lasting friendships.
“They have developed real connections and friendships and that is so important,” she added.
The Mid Ulster Stroke Survivors Group is on break for the summer now and will start up again in September.
