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Raising Stroke Awareness Across Wigan & Leigh |
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Latest News |
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Think Ahead are lottery winners!
 Think Ahead has been awarded £496,000 from the Big Lottery Fund’s Reaching Communities Programme, aimed to help those most in need and build stronger communities.
The fund will enable Think Ahead to continue their work providing help to stroke survivors, their families and carers across Wigan, Leigh and the surrounding areas, and to improve the quality of their lives by providing friendship, information, advice, support and education, together with opportunities for interaction with other members by organising outings, respite breaks and appropriate social activities.
The fund will also help to continue their work on activities such as the “Living With Stroke” Programme, which partners stroke survivors and their carers with a specially trained peer supporter to provide one to one information, advice and support about living and recovering from Stroke.
Think Ahead Chairman, Mike Aspinall, said; “At Think Ahead we aim to be a driving force behind improving the lives of stroke survivors and their carers and most important giving people back their hope, dignity and independence.
“This lottery funding will make a significant difference to the lives of stroke survivors and their carers across Wigan and Leigh for years to come. Everyone at Think Ahead would like to thank the Big Lottery Fund for entrusting us with this money.”
Think Ahead will be celebrating National Stroke Awareness Day on Saturday 8th May with their ‘Pride of the Borough Charity Fun Day’, at Robin Park Arena, Loire Drive, Wigan, WN5 0UH. |
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Think Ahead's Pride of the Borough Charity Challenge Day, Saturday 8 May, Robin Park Arena, 12pm-3pm
Think Ahead will be celebrating National Stroke Awareness Day with their Annual Charity Challenge Day on Saturday 8th May at Robin Park Arena, Wigan from 12pm-3pm.
The afternoon will enable people of all ages and abilities to come along and take part in a series of events and activities, whilst representing their communities of Wigan or Leigh, and supporting Think Ahead.
At the end of the day wither Wigan or Leigh will be named the winner...so please come along and support your community and Think Ahead! |
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Monster of the Deep Spices up Record Curry for Think Ahead
 Remember the mighty Jaws? Now try and imagine him wrapped in a garlic naan!
Sounds fishy I hear you say? Well not if The Royal Saffron Restaurant in Lowton gets its way on the 9th March.
The restaurant has decided to attempt a new world record for the world’s largest fish curry – by cooking a whole 80Kg (176lb) Bangladeshi Tiger or Baag Fish for Think Ahead.
The fearsome predator, famed for its terrifying jaws and veracious appetite, will involuntarily trade its familiar habitat of the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal, for the slightly spicier climes of a mouth watering Narila curry.
The Royal Saffron will then serve the monster up for dinners at its regular charity night, held monthly in support of Think Ahead.
Those who doubt the Royal Saffron’s ability to achieve such a feat should take heed: the restaurants head chef, Faisal Ali Chouwdhury has record setting history, in 2000 he cooked up a mind boggling 59.5Kg (131lb) onion bhaji.
Restaurant owner Habib Rahman Monaf explains: “We’ve supported Think Ahead Stroke Group for nearly a year now, and we always like to find new and interesting ways of helping raise community awareness of the charity and strokes as a condition.
“This record is a bit of fun, but the curry itself will be extremely delicious, and we hope as many people come down as possible to enjoy it, as half the profits on the night will be donated to Think Ahead Stroke Group.”
Think Ahead Chairman Mike Aspinall joked: “What next!? You never can tell with the Royal Saffron! I’m just glad the fish is dead – it looks terrifying and more likely to be eating us for dinner! Mike continues: “As a charity, everyone at Think Ahead Stroke Group is so grateful to Habib and his team at the Royal Saffron for all their support. 1,000 people a year will have a stroke in the Greater Wigan area alone, and donations such as this provide much needed support when people need it most.
“Think Ahead relies on donations and volunteers, and we’re always looking for new members and community involvement, so this sort of activity is perfect. I’m sure it will be a fantastic night. Let’s hope they get the record in the bag.”
Best get cooking that Naan bread lads!
The record attempt is being held as part of the 2010 Wigan food & Drink Festival. To book call the Royal Saffron on 01942 601 111. The Think Ahead charity curry night is held the second Tuesday of each month. |
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Think Ahead Stroke Group Present Hamper to Lucky Winner
 Christmas may be over, but one lucky Wiganer has enjoyed some belated festive cheer by scooping a charity prize draw.
Mrs Cockrell, from Standish, was named as the winner having had her name chosen from just under 600 entrants, all of whom proved that Christmas really is a time of giving by buying a charity bow for the Christmas tree in Wigan’s Market Hall. All the proceeds of the bow sale will go towards helping Think Ahead provide a network of support for stroke survivors and carers across Wigan, Leigh and the surrounding areas.
Think Ahead Chairman Mike Aspinall said: “Everyone at Think Ahead would like to give a special thank you to the people of Wigan; by buying a Christmas bow they have made a big difference to the lives of stroke survivors and carers in this area.
Mike continues: “We are so grateful to everyone at Wigan Council who gave us this opportunity to raise much needed funds in the run up to Christmas, the bow selling really was a huge success and we look forward to working with Wigan Council on more fund raising ideas in 2010.”
“We would also like to give a special mention to the market traders in Wigan’s Market Hall who not only helped us sell the Christmas bows, but who also donated items for the hamper. I’d like to congratulate Mrs Cockrell on winning the hamper, Think Ahead couldn’t exist without the generosity of people like her.
Mike concludes: “This whole experience shows what can be achieved when different groups of people work together for the same aim.” |
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Outing to Boundary Mills
 It was a fine day, at least for this time of year, and not too much traffic on the roads, but it seemed to takes ages to reach Boundary Mills. We managed to pass David, one of our drivers, and waved like mad creatures at those on the bus as we raced pass them. Eventually we reached the end of the motorway and we saw Boundary Mills up a small incline and looking quite majestic. It was certainly quite different from their other place. We decided to have something to eat first and then Sharran and I could go shopping. We went to the Banny’s Fish and Chip Restaurant and luckily we only had to wait a few minutes for a table. The service was quick and yet we were not rushed to eat our food and go. The meal was lovely and I even left some of it!!! Outside there was a rather beautiful fish tank, it was a tall one which you could walk around and view it from all angles. The inside was gorgeous, the colours of the plants were heavenly, and who had designed it had made a really spectacular sight. I actually felt like being a fish, swimming around, not bothered about the people watching, just nipping in and out of all the plants, round the rocks and swimming up and down the circular tank.
 Then it was time for us to go shopping. Although it is much larger than the last place, Boundary Mills is not a place I would go to again. We saw a jewellery department where they had a really good selection. The people were extremely very pleasant and were willing to let us pass, but as usual it is something I shall never get used to being in a wheelchair. However, I must get on and tell you about the place. The clothes were very expensive, there were some excellent fashions, but unfortunately too pricey. The bags, there again, for me they were too much money. We then decided to go upstairs, got the lift and zoomed up. We looked in the Marks and Spencer and even bought a few things and after we gingerly walked, well at least Sharran did, and narrowly missed knocking over some of the glassware, through to the café where we saw the rest of our crew. There we had a most welcome glass of cool mango juice. As usual we had trouble getting out of the café, but why worry, it is all part of the fun.
Then it was time to go home. It had been a lovely day out, but that is all. No doubt some of you will want to go again and come home with something quite out of this world.
Lila Aspinall
Hi everybody,
Our last outing of the year was to Boundary Mill. We all arrived safe and sound. Grant is a great driver, and very obliging looking out for us all. We could only see masses of buses and coaches lined up in the car park. I thought, what’s it like inside?
Neville, Mavis and Mike met us at the very impressive front of the mill and inside we went. I was flabbergasted at the size of the building. Colin wanted a meal, as we all did, so we caught the lift and queued at the restaurant for about 20 minutes. Muriel and Albert were with us. The meal was lovely, we had fillet steak Rossini and chips then rice pudding with a fruit compote, lovely!
We came out to big crowds of people near all the Christmas goodies. I bought a few, but Colin was getting anxious to get in the lift and to the bus. We all met up and that was another day over. It was very pleasant a big thank you.
Margaret Ross.
“Rooky Reporter”
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Saturday 10th October
Lowton St. Mary's Guides Car Wash
 On Saturday 10th October Lowton St. Mary’s Guides did a car wash for Think Ahead Stroke Group. They washed around 30 cars in 3 hours which is a fantastic achievement and they raised over £150!
Throughout the day they worked non-stop but enjoyed every minute of it. They particularly enjoyed being sprayed with the hose at the end much to their parent’s horror!
 Carol, Linda and Mike from Think Ahead turned up to see how the Guides were doing which allowed both guides, their parents and people getting their cars washed to learn more about the charity and how it helps the local community.
The girls had lots to say about the day:
“It was fun because we were raising money for charity and it was something different!”
“I really enjoyed the car wash especially when we got sprayed!”
“It was fun and wet!”
The day turned out to be a success and the guides and leaders are all looking forward to helping in the future.
Thank you to Lowton St Mary’s Guides for their tremendous efforts on 10th October and also for providing our Newsletter with the above article and we were glad to learn that they even had some “FUN” along the way!!! |
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Outing to Fairhaven Restaurant - Lytham St Annes
 It was a beautiful Autumnal morning when we set off to Lytham St Anne’s.
Arriving at the Restaurant at 12.50pm, two buses were already there and some of the members were enjoying the sunshine whilst waiting for the others to arrive. Unfortunately, one of the buses was delayed which left us starting our lunch later than planned. However, we enjoyed our meal whilst chatting with our friends.
 After a leisurely lunch, Mike, Sharran and I made a detour into Lytham as Sharran had never been before.
Parking up, Sharran and I strolled round the shops leaving Mike sitting on a bench, enjoying the late sunshine and watching the world go by.
The return journey through Preston was an absolute nightmare as we joined the rush hour traffic. Road works reduced the two lanes down to one and we were bumper to bumper for over an hour, but this did not detract from another very enjoyable day with our friends.
Lila Aspinall
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 Our trip to St Anne’s was lovely. We set-off in brilliant sunshine and we got to our destination in plenty of time. We found our places for lunch and how good was that! Jan and her mum sat with Colin and I and we all had different starters and main meals and everyone’s was extremely nice and wholesome with a good filling pudding and a welcome cup-of tea.
It turned rather chilly in the afternoon so we stayed put in the Hotel for a while. The transport turned up and it was time to say “Bye” to our friends and make our way home.
We all had a nice day out and a big thank you to Mavis, Neville and committee members.
Margaret Ross |
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Friday 2nd October 2009
Wigan St Pat’s and Leigh Miners Rangers join the Think Ahead team
 Think Ahead is proud to announce that it will be working in partnership with Wigan St Pat’s and Leigh Miners Rangers Rugby clubs during its 10th anniversary year. This will also be a special year for St Pat’s who are celebrating their 100 year anniversary in 2010.
Think Ahead will be working with both clubs in a number of ways, including stroke awareness, fund raising and promoting positive lifestyles. Also, a number of the teams from the clubs will sport Think Ahead’s logo on their shirts for the coming season and beyond.
 Think Ahead’s Chairman Mike Aspinall is delighted to be working with the clubs: “Anyone who knows Wigan or rugby league knows St. Pats and Leigh Miners Rangers – they’re institutions!
“I can speak for all Think Ahead’s members and volunteers when I say that we’re very excited to be working with both the clubs in what is a very special year."
“By cooperating closely we can help build the profile of all the organisations involved and reach out to new audiences.”
St. Pats, Joe Charnock comments: “Over 100 years St. Pats has become part of the fabric of this community, and we see it as a natural progression to be working with such a local and worthy cause."
“Think Ahead will be very prominent around the club over the next year – and their logo will appear on the sleeves of our under 7’s and under 11’s team shirts. We hope our members give them a warm St. Pats welcome.”
Trevor Barton, President of Leigh Miners Rangers said: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with Think Ahead in their anniversary year.
“Being a stroke survivor myself I know the difficulties that people can face with this condition, and the work that the unseen volunteer army at Think Ahead does in the Wigan and Leigh communities for so many people is invaluable. We at Leigh Miners Rangers look forward to a long and fruitful partnership, every member of our eleven teams, will be wearing the Think Ahead logo with pride!”
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Friday 2nd October 2009
Think Ahead’s campaign nominated for PRide Award
 Think Ahead’s first organised PR campaign has received a North West regional Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide award nomination in the Not-for-Profit category.
The PRide Awards is the only awards scheme which showcases the best PR work being carried out across the UK regions and nations, and Frontier PR has been picked from the 1,448 entries this year.
The six month campaign delivered for Think Ahead by Manchester based public relations agency, Frontier PR, was primarily designed to increase awareness of the charity across Wigan, Leigh and the surrounding areas. The culmination of the campaign saw the staging of a unique human sculpture event in the centre of Wigan, involving hundreds of people from the community, and the current Health Secretary Andy Burnham MP. The event was designed to generate press interest in the issue and represent the physical impact of a stroke on the brain.
Think Ahead Chairman Mike Aspinall said: “I’m delighted that we’ve received this recognition because we knew Frontier PR ran a great campaign for the charity. Think Ahead’s profile within the community has changed beyond recognition in a relatively short space of time.”
Frontier PR’s MD David Innes-Edwards said: “As soon as I met Think Ahead, its staff, volunteers and members I thought, ‘Why don’t more people know about this charity?’ The work they do supporting stroke survivors their carers and families is nothing short of inspirational: I just knew the charity deserved a higher profile.”
David continues: “We set about helping Think Ahead find its ‘voice’ – and this nomination is not just for Frontier PR, but for Wigan & Leigh and all the wonderful people at Think Ahead.”
Think Ahead and Frontier PR will find out if they have won the award at the presentation dinner, being held at the Manchester Hilton, on Wednesday 18th November.
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Thursday 10th September 2009
Trip to Cleveleys
 Once again Think Ahead members were blessed with favourable weather and we arrived at Cleveleys in brilliant sunshine and it appeared that summer had returned for one day!
We waited for all the buses to arrive and everyone was chatting with friends old and new and then when everyone had arrived most people decided to go their own way and have some lunch.
 We found a nice café and then we made our way to the many small shops and market hall where we saw lots of people from our group.
Others went along the promenade to take in some seaair and Mike and Neville even saw one of our member’s on the beach after he had enjoyed a paddle in the “warm, clear blue sea”!
Of course, a trip to Cleveleys would not be complete without a stick of rock and many of our members took the opportunity to buy some traditional Blackpool rock. Our day seemed to go so quickly and soon it was time to return home and you can read below some of our members comments about their day trip to the seaside.
"A good day, good weather and good company."
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Good day and enjoyed the outing and looking forward to the next one"
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Very good day out"
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Scooters were everywhere and it was very nice for people with scooters and I was one!"
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A lovely day once again – thank you to everybody."
By Lila, Neville and Sharran
 Our driver Gordon, as usual, was quick out of the blocks and we were at our destination in good time. Cleveleys is a resort to the north of Blackpool on the Fylde coast and is frequented by many who are not enamoured of the hurly burly along the Golden Mile.
 Lunch was a superb haddock and chips, partaken in an eatery in the town recommended by Jean. After bite and sup and as the sun was shining we made our way to the newly developed sea front and found a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the view. Not wishing to miss the opportunity to give the feet their annual wash in salt water one of our group went for a paddle. That’s right; this mad man rolled up his trouser legs, removed footwear and went for a stroll in the Irish Sea (photographic evidence available, courtesy of Lillian). Despite speculation to the contrary the sea was warm and pleasant.
After an ice cream we made our way back to the pick up point and had the opportunity of a beverage prior to returning to our Wigan/Leigh beauty spots. At this point it was revealed that some of the group did not make it to the sea front, deciding to shop instead!!!!!!!
A good day was had by all, even I am informed, by those who went shopping, and a warm thank you must go to the organisers. In fact, what more could you ask for on a day at the seaside; sunshine, superb fish and chips, a paddle, an ice cream and a couple of bevies.
By Peter Weatherhead |
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Tuesday 1st September 2009
 A Day at Haydock Races
It was a gorgeous day, the sun shone brilliantly and it was great for our day at the races. Of course, rushing around I nearly forgot to cut out the list of horses racing from the paper, it is just as well my head is attached to my body, otherwise, I would be sure to leave it behind.
Going along to Ashton it was surprising to see the number of new properties built, it just shows how long it has been for me to travel in that direction. Ashton is a busy little town, people shopping, talking to each other; it was a hive of activity.
 We got to Haydock, parked the car and walked to the races. Neville was there, looking very well and chirpy after having a new replacement hip. He looked great! Our group of 75 people were already by the fence chatting and studying the horses, at least we like to give that impression.  To be quite honest, there are very few of our group who know about racing, but for one day a year and such a lovely day who cares, we all enjoy ourselves and have a good laugh and sometimes win a little money: whoopee!!! I wonder who won most money.
We had fish and chips at £6.50 each, it was daylight robbery. Next time I think we will take a picnic, I know you are not supposed to, but at that price who cares.
We left before the last race, just to get ahead of the traffic, it has been a fantastic day. I am sure everybody has enjoyed themselves and we look forward to next year.
By Lila Aspinall
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Thursday 13th August 2009
 General Meeting at Royal Saffron
Members enjoy a real taste of “Indian Cuisine”
It was all change for the members of Think Ahead this month because we needed to find an alternative venue for our August meeting due to renovation work being carried out at St Peter’s Pavilion, Hindley.
Habib from the Royal Saffron Restaurant, Lowton, kindly came to our rescue and offered our group the use of his restaurant for the afternoon. Of course, this was a wonderful opportunity, which could not be missed, for our members to sample the Restaurant’s fine Indian cuisine along with some traditional barbecue delights!
The meeting was attended by 68 members and everyone enjoyed the afternoon and we would like to say a special thank you to Habib and all the staff at the Restaurant for their hospitality.
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Thursday 16th July 2009
Think Ahead Olympic Games
 On Thursday 16th July, the athletes arrived at the Olympic village (St Peters) and were greeted with pies, sandwiches and cakes, designed to provide maximum energy for the titanic sporting challenge to come. The director of sport was in great form with her microphone and, at long last, a whistle incorporating a compass to help the organisers to find their way around the sporting complex.
 The starter set off competitors from the eight teams in the first event, tin pan alley and this was followed by ball in the bucket, hoopla, boulles, and wellie whanging. (to be pronounced with the greatest of care) This last event was completed in the rain and the remaining two events, skittles and the egg and spoon race took place inside.
Spectators, athletes and organisers looked on in awe as sports men and women showed their competitive spirit and supreme levels of performance. Medals and certificates were presented to the winners and runners up (Oops, sorry, not PC, in line with our schools there should be no winners or losers!!!!) in the awards ceremony.
A great time was had by all and many thanks must go to all who helped make the day a success. Everyone went away with a certificate for attending the games. We look forward to next year’s Think Ahead Olympics and expect many successful athletes to return to defend their titles.
ps. There are unsubstantiated rumours that a Think Ahead Winter Games have been suggested. Watch this space.
By
Peter Weatherhead
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Thursday 9th July 2009
Group Outing to Owd Nell's
 Group trip to picturesque Owd Nell's
The group left Wigan and headed north under indifferent weather conditions. However, those in Gordon’s bus were assured by one of the party that the sun would be cracking the flags at our destination. As we left Preston behind we noticed that the weather had certainly taken a turn for the better. It is therefore suggested that Neville be designated “Think Ahead Weather Consultant”.
 On arrival at Bilsborrow village on the A6 we saw Owd Nell’s in front of us. Set in picturesque Lancashire countryside next to the Lancaster canal and surrounded by Duchy of Lancaster land, Owd Nell’s is a delightful thatched hostelry within a thatched village with its own cricket pitch. A number of dining rooms had been reserved for our group and we sat down to a delightful meal enhanced by the real ale available at the bar. The service was generally good with obliging staff.
 After the meal a leisurely stroll by the canal or a restful sit at one of the many outside tables was the order of the day. The thatched village with its shops appeared to be deserted, appropriate as one of the canal barges nearby was named ‘Marie Celeste’. It was good to see the ducks on the canal and listen to the song birds.
All too soon it was time to head back to the bus and the metropolis of Wigan. Thanks must go to those who organised the trip and the weather and a suggestion that as the Royal Lancashire show ground is situated over the road from Owd Nell’s, note should be taken of the dates for this auspicious show before organising the next trip, OO AARH!!
By Peter Weatherhead
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 Thursday 14th May 2009
Hundreds Lend a Helping Hand for Local Stroke Support Group
Think Ahead Community Stroke Group Achieve Success with ‘Living Sculpture’ for National Stroke Awareness Day
Wigan-based stroke support group, Think Ahead, had hundreds of helping hands on Saturday morning as people from across Wigan & Leigh gathered to participate in a unique human sculpture. The event was led by Charity Patron and Secretary of Culture, Andy Burnham MP and included other dignitaries such as Mayor and Mayoress, Rona Winkworth and Gail Guy; Leigh Sports Village driving-force, Trevor Barton; and CEO of Wigan Leisure Trust, Rodney Hill all contributed to making the sculpture and spreading awareness about strokes on the day.
The event was designed to raise awareness of the importance of supporting stroke survivors within the community, whilst also quickly responding to tell-tale signs of a stroke.
 MP Andy Burnham, who opened the event at 11am, said: “As Think Ahead’s patron, I’m delighted to see the community come together to support stroke awareness. A thousand people have a stroke each year in Wigan, so events like this are a great way to support charities that help stroke survivors recovering across Wigan & Leigh.”
 The ‘sculpture’, which took place in Wigan’s Market Place, was commissioned by local artist Jason Taylor. Jason is most well known for his cow design in Manchester’s Cow Parade in 2004.
Following personal experiences, when his wife Lila suffered a number of strokes, Mike Aspinall Think Ahead’s Chairman and a few like-minded carers founded Think Ahead in 2000.
Mike Aspinall said: “Our organisation’s profile has grown dramatically in the past years, so seeing everyone come out to lend a hand for our event – means a lot to my wife, Lila myself and fellow trustees. We just want to see more stroke survivors across Wigan and Leigh to actively seek support and Think Ahead to be the launching pad for changing lives.” |
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Tuesday 12th May 2009
Wigan Gilbert & Sullivan Society’s Stroke Awareness Concert
A very professional and enjoyable concert was held at St Peter’s Pavilion in Hindley on Friday 8th May.
The programme for the first part of the evening was a number of popular songs taken from the operas by Gilbert & Sullivan. The second part of the evening comprised of a range of songs which included songs such as the Banana Boat song and You Raise Me Up.
The concert helped raise stroke awareness within a number of local community groups with the substantial proceeds gained going to the Think Ahead group.
Videos can be viewed on the Wigan Gilbert and Sullivan website: www.wigangands.co.uk |
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 Wednesday 15th April 2009
Higher Ince Labour Club – Benefit Night
On Sunday 12th April, Carol Sankey was presented with a cheque for £1,000 which was the proceeds raised from a charity concert along with an extra contribution from Higher Ince Labour Club.
The concert was held at Higher Ince Labour Club on Thursday 9th April on behalf of Think Ahead and Christies.
The photo shows Carol Sankey, Marion Baldwin – Secretary Higher Ince Labour Club, a representative from Christies and Brian Boyd – Chairman Higher Ince Labour Club.
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Wednesday 15th April 2009
Mr. Leigh’s Brave Battle
 Trevor Barton inspired by stroke experiences to help others
Trevor Barton is a man of many talents and boundless energy. The 65 year-old Blackburn native joined the police at the young age of 19, dedicating his life to the police becoming the superintendent in specialist operations, before retiring at 51. His inspiration and love of the force came from his father William Barton, who was also a police man. On retirement, Trevor started his own specialist security company called Professional Witnesses Limited. Over the years Trevor had become something of a ‘Mr. Leigh’, championing the town and its people, including a key involvement with the £83m sports village, chairman of 25 years to Leigh Miners Rangers Rugby League and his ongoing relationship with Secretary of Culture and MP Andy Burnham and Lord Leigh Peter Smith.
The media has at times hailed him as the ‘driving force’ behind Leigh Sports Village, but Trevor Barton wants this ‘myth’ cleared up. Trevor said: “I use my relationships with decision makers and community leaders to voice the views of local people in appeals and press work. I feel that Leigh belongs to the community, not big businesses.”
In the midst of all the great contributions Trevor has made to sport, education and the community, he is also a stroke survivor. Trevor experienced a stroke in November 2005 at the age of 62 years-old. Trevor describes the day: “I actually had two strokes. One day at my home I woke up and found it really hard to get my words out properly, I didn’t think anything of it and just thought I was having an off day. Three weeks later I couldn’t grip anything. I told my wife Anne that I thought I may have had a stroke.”
 Trevor continues: “After going to my doctor it was revealed that I first had a TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) and then a stroke. I didn’t even know I had a stroke - I thought I was going to be going on holiday a week later! I’m very lucky though, because I’ve recovered really well. However, my father died at the age of 69 after having two strokes. The affects it had on him before his death made me appreciate how lucky I really am.”
“I really owe my recovery and life to my wife Anne, she is the one that made me go to the doctor and get checked out after I thought I had a stroke. After my diagnosis, she was the one there with the water and tablets, making sure I went to my treatments. She looked after me when I needed it the most, providing me with constant love and care.”
Trevor is urging people to think about not only prevention, but keeping in mind that a stroke affects two people - the survivor and their carer. Trevor said: “For National Stroke Awareness Day, I hope that people will think of two things – think about how much carers have to give up to help their loved ones recover from the stroke. Then ask yourself would you care enough to support someone through stroke recovery?”
“Secondly I want people to think about if they had a stroke, what they would miss – would it be the ability to speak, using your limbs freely, or independency? If you are in the age group at risk for strokes, then do something before it happens. My father died from a stroke and I still didn’t think it would ever happen to me.”
Trevor is eager to help local stroke awareness group Think Ahead in spreading its message and get people involved with supporting stroke survivors. “Think Ahead is a fantastic charity that helps people when they are vulnerable and really need support. They are an unpaid army for the people of Wigan and Leigh and deserve recognition for the good things they do for their members. I will do everything I can to help them in their efforts to rebuild people’s lives that have been affected by a stroke.”
Think Ahead Stroke Community Group has announced it will be choreographing a ‘never seen before’ event in Wigan town centre on Saturday 9th May, as up to a 1,000 people participate in a ‘human sculpture’. Trevor Barton and Andy Burnham MP will be involved to help orchestrate the event.
To make the sculpture come alive Think Ahead needs as many people as possible from Wigan and Leigh to come to Market Place, Wigan (at the top of Market Street) at 10am, pick up their free red Think Ahead balloon and simple instructions to be part of history! |
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Monday 16th March 2009
Battling Back: How brave coach Neil Kelly faced his toughest challenge
 Leigh Centurions Help Raise Stroke Awareness
Neil Kelly is a forty-six year old stroke survivor, but when you think of Neil Kelly the word stroke would never enter your mind. You would think of him as a successful rugby player and coach, how he has been from his home town of Dewsbury, Yorkshire to Northern Ireland, coaching Ulster in rugby union and back to England to coach Leigh Centurions. He has made some amazing contributions to rugby and now he’s keen to give back to stroke survivors in the Wigan and Leigh area with Think Ahead Stroke Group.
October 2004 was a big year for Neil Kelly; he switched rugby codes, and leaving England to coach Ulster, moving his wife and three daughters to Northern Ireland. Kelly settled into his new job and home, and two years later, May 2006, Ulster were crowned Celtic League champions.
However, in the shadows of such achievement – Kelly suffered a stroke two games before the end of the season at the age of forty-four.
Neil Kelly describes the day: “I was playing golf with some of the players and had a TIA (transient Ischemic Attack) or mini stroke, and was taken to Belfast Hospital. It was later in hospital that I had a full stroke, caused by a blood clot in the brain. I was left with short-term paralysis down the right side and communication difficulties. It’s taken me a long time and therapy to get over the speech impairment, which has much improved.”
Many stroke survivors have physical and speech side effects, but sometimes the biggest impact is a loss in confidence and the inability to ‘feel’ able to do day to day activities. Neil said: “I could speak, but it was easier not to speak because I had lost my confidence. As a coach, I had to talk to my players, the press and to fans – having so much pressure to communicate makes you really conscious about what you say, but I think that I was more aware of it than they were.”
Strokes have the false reputation of being something that happens to ‘old people’, but around a quarter of strokes happen to people under the age of sixty-five. Neil continues: “I was forty-four when I had my stroke, I was fit, never smoked, didn’t drink too much and I would look at guys my age who were smoking, drinking, not exercising – I wondered why this happened to me? It’s not the right way to feel, but you can’t help it.”
Think Ahead Stroke Group Chairman, Mike Aspinall said: “Strokes can happen to anyone. It’s Think Ahead’s job and duty to try and make all age groups aware of what a stroke is and to understand that it is a medical emergency – awareness will save lives.”
Neil’s wife, Maureen Kelly, was his main carer during his recovery. “My family and daughters were a great support, a real comfort, and I’m very fortunate to have recovered quickly and keep my abilities to coach and still be a part of rugby.”
The length of the recovery process of a stroke depends on how fast someone gets the required medical attention, but recovering from the emotion affects of a stroke can take longer.
Neil continues: “I started to feel that I was worthless – I had an enormous feeling of mourning for the old me. When you have a stroke, part of your brain literally dies, well, I was in mourning for that part of me that had died. It is still hard to come to terms with it."
Today, Neil Kelly is feeling confident and back in the game. Neil said: “I feel good, but you never fully recover from a stroke, you start get your limb movement and speech back and then piece your life back together.”
Neil Kelly is supporting local charity stroke group, Think Ahead, in their run up to National Stroke Awareness Day on May 12th and the Leigh Centurions vs. Halifax RLFC game will host Think Ahead on May 10th.
Neil said: “I’m pleased that organisations like Think Ahead are making people aware of strokes and helping people that have had a stroke, because it can be hard to recover with no support.”
Neil concludes: “The more awareness about stroke recognition – the less the chances of having a severe disability due to the damaged caused is decreased, which is why I think National Stroke Awareness Day is important.”
Mike Aspinall said: “We are very excited to have Neil Kelly on board to help our organisation and members to promote National Stroke Awareness Day. Neil is living proof that there is recovery and life after a stroke. He’s a great guy and an inspiration to the people of Wigan and Leigh.”
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Thursday 19th February 2009
School Kids Bag Cash for Wigan Charity
Lowton High School secures £3,000 for Think Ahead Local Stroke Group
Lowton High School has secured £3,000 for Think Ahead Stroke Group as part of an international programme, The Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI), which is designed to develop future community leaders and raise awareness about the work of ‘grassroots’ charities.
A group of five pupils from year 11 at Lowton High School have studied Think Ahead since September 2008, spending their spare time meeting with the charity’s staff and members to gain an understanding of the organisations needs and the support given to local people affected by strokes.
Their presentation was judged by the YPI, and the £3,000 grant will be presented to the group in June 2009 at the special YPI End of Year Event in London.
Ella Goodland and Helen Trumble, from the winning group lost their grandparents due to strokes.
Ella Goodland, 16, said: “It was a great experience visiting Think Ahead and meeting the members, you can really tell that they care and we can see the positive impact they have on people’s lives.”
Helen Trumble, 16, adds: “It would have been really nice if my grandparents could have had the help and support that Think Ahead provide, which is the reason we chose them.”
Carol Sankey, Think Ahead Charity Administrator, said: “It was amazing to work with the students and Lowton High School, because I feel that the youth of today can sometimes get bad press. These students really cared about the programme and they were enthusiastic about helping our members”.
Head of Citizenship at Lowton High School, John McHugh said: “Although there was one winner, all of the students worked especially hard on their presentations for the various charities. After everyone presented, there wasn’t a dry eye in the audience. Seeing how motivated they where to help Think Ahead made me very proud to be their teacher.”
Emily Miller, YPI spokesperson said: “I was really impressed by the final presentations at Lowton High School. I enjoyed working with the pupils and seeing their passion for their chosen charities. We are looking forward to working with more schools and charities in the area next year.”
Think Ahead has been helping stroke survivors and their families in the Wigan and Leigh area for over nine years. The organisation relies on donations and volunteers to organise peer support programs, weekend breaks, seasonal events and life skills classes.
Carol Sankey concludes: “We hope that the efforts of these students will encourage more people to help Think Ahead raise awareness in Wigan and Leigh for National Stroke Awareness Day on May 12th.
“We will need loads of volunteers to ensure the day is a hit and becomes an annual fixture in the local diary. In particular, look out for a big ‘top secret’ public event taking place in Wigan and Leigh on the 9th May. Watch this space!”
Anyone who wishes to organise an event on May 12th, volunteer or make any contribution then please call 01942 824888,
e-mail: info@think-ahead.org.uk or visit www.think-ahead.org.uk.
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Tuesday 20th January 2009
Think Ahead to Deliver New Approach to Stroke Care
Charity to improve stroke survivors lives through shared knowledge
Wigan based charity, Think Ahead, has announced a key role in the delivery of a new approach to stroke treatment and care across Wigan and Leigh.
Working jointly with NHS Ashton, Leigh and Wigan - the local Primary Care Trust, Think Ahead’s extended local remit mirrors a new national government led stroke strategy that places increased emphasis on stroke prevention, quick recognition and treatment and improved access to services and support.
Approximately 1,000 people will experience a stroke in Wigan and Leigh every year, and strokes remain the UK’s third largest killer – and the single biggest cause of disability.
Founded in 2000, the charity’s new role comes as a direct result of the wealth of knowledge and experience it has gained through working with stroke survivors and their carers over the past 9 years.
Think Ahead’s new remit includes the following key objectives:
• Improve the quality of life of stroke survivors and their carers through better access to information, peer support, treatment and care
• Reduce the number of long-term ‘hospitalised’ stroke survivors
• Raise awareness of the importance of ‘stroke recognition’ and response through the F.A.S.T. method
• Assist stroke survivors and carers participate in community life and return to work programmes
To achieve these objectives Think Ahead has established a peer support programme that partner’s stroke survivors and their carers with a specially trained peer supporter.
Each peer supporter has experienced the affects of stroke, and their role is to listen, share experiences, give tips and share knowledge about living and recovering from a stroke and the support and services that are available.
Think Ahead Chairman Mike Aspinall said: “This is a big step for the charity, but our aim is to make Think Ahead a driving force for improving lives through shared knowledge and understanding. Together we can give stroke survivors and carers the information and support they need to help themselves lead more fulfilled independent lives.”
Mike continues: “Think Ahead has always been excellent at helping its members. But now we’re going a step further, by playing an active role in influencing and improving care and services.
“It makes Think Ahead a more ‘proactive’ organisation – rather than just responding to the needs and difficulties of our members, we can use our experience and knowledge to actively seek to improve them.”
Richard Baldock, Senior Commissioning Manager for Long Term Conditions at Ashton Leigh and Wigan Primary Care Trust said: “Ashton Leigh and Wigan Primary Care Trust is excited to be working closely with Think Ahead group and is keen to ensure their involvement in the future development of stroke services.
“It’s our anticipation that Think Ahead play an integral part in supporting stroke survivors and their families and carers through further development of the charity’s support network.”
Anyone who wishes to get involved with Think Ahead as a member, peer supporter or volunteer – or to make a contribution,
please call 01942 824888, e-mail: info@think-ahead.org.uk or visit www.think-ahead.org.uk
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