Administrator Account posted on October 13, 2011 13:20
Think Ahead Stroke Group is delighted to announce the appointment of its first full-time Community Stroke Supporter, Paul Newton, who will help to further develop the charity’s unique Peer Support Service.
Two years ago Paul volunteered to be a Peer Supporter on Think Ahead’s long term “Living with Stroke” programme and drew on his own personal experience of Stroke to support other Stroke Survivors and Carers across the borough of Wigan and Leigh.
Paul has been involved with Think Ahead since 2000, when he survived a Stroke at the relatively young age of 33. The trauma had led to loss of limb and throat function, as well as affecting his vision.
The Stroke, which resulted from a serious heart infection, came just as Paul’s second child was due to be born, making his mental and physical recovery a pressing priority for his growing family.
Through interaction with Think Ahead’s support network, Paul was ultimately able to return to full time work again and over the last few years has dedicated his free time to assisting with the charity’s Peer Support Service, which aims to link Stroke Survivors and their Carers with trained mentors.
Paul explains his new position at Think Ahead: “I’m delighted to be taking on the full time role of Community Stroke Supporter. Over the past few years, I’ve enjoyed sharing my experience of Stroke with others, helping people come to terms with the challenges that they may face. Think Ahead were incredibly important in helping me regain the skills, confidence and independence that I thought I had lost. Their community support work is inspirational and I really look forward to helping them achieve their goals.”
Carol Sankey, Executive Manager at Think Ahead said: “We’re very pleased to welcome Paul into our full time team. His personal experience as a Stroke Survivor and as a volunteer Peer Supporter will be invaluable as we strive to help everyone affected by Stroke across Wigan and Leigh.”
The Think Ahead Team Peer Support Service