Courage of stroke survivors celebrated at top London awards ceremony

Stroke survivor Nicola Harkin (34) will today be honoured for her courage and determination shown following a stroke at the age of 22 at The Stroke Association’s, star-studded Life After Stroke Awards at Claridge’s, Central London.

For the past 12 years, Nicola has fought to overcome the devastating effects of a stroke, (believed to have been caused by the chemotherapy she was receiving for Ovarian Cancer) that left her unable to speak.

At 22, Nicola’s life changed dramatically; when she went from having the time of her life at university to dealing with cancer, having a stroke and then developing epilepsy.  This was made worse by the fact that her stroke left her with aphasia (a communication disability), which meant she was unable to communicate and the only words she could say were ‘yes’ and ‘no’.

With help from friends and family Nicola has regained her confidence and is able to enjoy a social life again. She has enrolled on to courses such as art, aromatherapy, massage and photography.  Nicola also now volunteers at the Conversation Group where she initially went for her speech therapy. 

Nicola works hard to raise awareness of stroke and aphasia.  Despite her aphasia and the fact that talking about her experiences brings back painful memories, Nicola regularly makes public speeches on stroke.  One of Nicola’s biggest achievements to date has been giving a speech to 350 people on stroke and aphasia. 

Nicola’s award recognises her tremendous courage in coming to terms with and recovering from her stroke.  Nicola is a great inspiration for young people and a true ambassador for stroke survivors everywhere. 

Nicola is one of ten winners who have been awarded a Life After Stroke Award.  The categories and winners are:

Children and Young People’s Courage Award (up to 18 years) – Jennifer Gall, 19, Scotland

Adult Courage Award (18-64 years old) – Nicola Harkin, 34, Northern Ireland

Adult Courage Award (65 years and over) – Cyril Merle, 91, West Sussex

Corporate Supporter Award - sanofi-aventis / Bristol Myers Squibb

Trust Supporter Award - The Philip and Pauline Harris Charitable Trust

Carer’s Award – Jean Fieldsend, 68, Shropshire

Excellence in Stroke Care Award – Annie Laverty, 40, Northumberland

Stroke Club Award – Market Drayton and District Stroke Club, Shropshire

The Stroke Association Award for Volunteering – Phillip Williams, 63, Wales

The Susie Hulks Memorial Award for Art – Peter Bull, 47, Sheffield

The awards are being hosted by DJ Neil Fox and other confirmed celebrity guests attending to recognise the winners tremendous achievements and present them with their awards include TV presenter Bob Holness, novelist Wendy Holden, Radio 1 DJ’s Richard McCourt and Dominic Wood (Dick ‘n’ Dom), TV presenter Gail Porter, advisors on The Apprentice Nick Hewer and Margaret Mountford and actress Linda Robson. 

Jon Barrick, Chief Executive at The Stroke Association comments,

“Around one million people in the UK are living with the effects of stroke.  The Life After Stroke Awards not only highlight how stroke can affect anyone at any age, but also the impact the condition has on families, carers and health care professionals.  All of the award winners have shown tremendous courage in rebuilding their lives after a stroke or in helping others to do the same.  I am delighted that we are able to recognise and celebrate their achievements.” 

ENDS

For further information or to arrange interviews with the winners please contact the Media Team at The Stroke Association on 020 7566 1500 or email the Press Office

Notes to editor

1.  Over 250 people from across the UK were nominated for a Life After Stroke Award and all the winners are available for interview

2.  The Stroke Association is the only UK charity solely concerned with combating stroke in people of all ages.  The charity funds research into prevention, treatment, better methods of rehabilitation and helps stroke patients and their families directly through its community services, which include communications support, family and carer support, information services, welfare grants, publications and leaflets.  The Stroke Association also campaigns, educates and informs to increase knowledge of stroke at all levels of society acting as a voice for everyone affected by stroke 

3.  A stroke is a brain attack which causes brain damage.  A stroke can be diagnosed by using FAST – Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Test all three.  If any of these symptoms are present call an ambulance straight away. 

4.  The Stroke Helpline provides information on stroke to the general public and is open between 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday on 0845 3033 100

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