Birmingham stroke survivor receives regional recognition for contribution to research
A West Midlands stroke survivor and Network Research Champion has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association in recognition of her courage and participation in stroke research, as well as her support for others.
Sheena Davidson received her award at the regional Life After Stroke Awards at the Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel in Birmingham on Sunday 20 January 2019. She is pictured with Coronation Street Actor Kriss Dosanjh at the ceremony.
In May 2016, Sheena, aged 64, suffered a stroke while working as an auxiliary nurse at Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust. The effects of Sheena’s stroke were so devastating that she lost the ability to walk, talk or carry out simple daily tasks, which left her feeling isolated and alone.
Sheena went on to take part in a number of stroke research projects, one of which looks at a care pathway for cognitive problems (in memory, language and attention) after stroke.
Sheena said: ‘I see having a stroke as a journey. When I first had my stroke, my right hand side was paralysed so I have been learning to walk and talk and write with my right hand again.
“I love being a part of research - finding out more about the condition and knowing that I am helping somebody else has really helped lift my spirits too.’
‘It is an honour and I feel very blessed to receive this award from the Stroke Association. I have so much to thank nurses and doctors for; and everyone who supported me during my journey.’
Following her experience in taking part in stroke research, Sheena has committed to becoming a Patient Research Ambassador (PRA), working with the Clinical Research Network (CRN) West Midlands. A PRA is someone who promotes health research from a patient point of view. They could be a patient, service user, carer or lay person who is enthusiastic about health research and is willing to communicate that to other patients, the public, as well as other healthcare professionals.
Sheena receives her award
Sheena is also the founder of Pannel Croft Community Singers, a choir which consists of and supports stroke survivors and other members of the community. They hold regularly fundraising concerts in the area.
Rachel Evans, Senior Research Facilitator at the CRN West Midlands, who nominated Sheena for the award said: ‘I am delighted that Sheena has been recognised with this award. ‘Her courage following her stroke has been inspirational and the research she has taken part in is so important in helping other stroke survivors in their recovery.
‘It has been my privilege to have met this lovely lady who has so much to give – her character has seen her through some tough times – and helped others realise that there is life after stroke.’
Jacqui Cuthbert, Director for the Stroke Association in Central England, added: ‘A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many local people were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award.
Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people like Sheena have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke, or in helping others to do the same.’
The Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Awards recognise the courage shown by stroke survivors and carers as well as the great work and commitment shown by health professionals, groups and supporter organisations. For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA
ENDS
For further information contact:
Claire Hall, Communications Lead on 01902 447207.
