Reconnections is “like having a whole new family” says stroke survivor
A stroke survivor has described how ground-breaking neurorehabilitation centre
Reconnections put him on the road to recovery.
Roger suffered a severe stroke following a hip replacement operation in 2019, which left him unable to walk.
“My stroke left me hospitalised for three months and unable to move my left arm and my left leg,” explained Roger.
During his stay at Reconnections, Roger’s programme focused on physical and cognitive rehabilitation alongside daily living skills.
His rehabilitation goals, achieved through a combination of functional and outdoor activities integrated with clinical therapy, included improving mobility, increasing insight into physical fatigue, building on independent living skills and establishing a regular daily routine.
Roger worked closely with the Occupational Therapy team and Neuro Rehabilitation Coaches to become more independent with personal care and activities of daily living again. He was also supported to develop improved self-awareness, fatigue management, organisation and time management skills.
“My first goal at Reconnections was to improve my walking,” explained Roger. “By the end of my stay, I was walking a kilometre every day.”
Roger, who has always loved the great outdoors, particularly benefitted from the outdoor elements of Reconnections’ rehabilitation programme.
Femke van Schelven, Neurological Physiotherapist at Reconnections, said:
“During his time at Reconnections, Roger’s mobility vastly improved. He is now able to walk on uneven surfaces and go up and down flights of steps and stairs.
“As well as walking, Roger cycled to improve his balance, lower limb strength and cardio-vascular fitness while canoeing helped with his core strength and stability.”
Roger has also benefitted from Reconnections’ Aquatic Therapy programme and continues to visit the centre for weekly sessions on the underwater treadmill.
“I’m finding my time in the pool very beneficial,” added Roger. “It’s enabling me to relearn physical skills without placing too much stress on my body.”
Roger has particular praise for the staff at Reconnections.
“They’re real professionals and hugely knowledgeable,” he concluded. “The physios and rehab coaches are always on hand without being intrusive.
Everyone’s success is celebrated. It’s like having a whole new family.”
