While moving forward after a stroke is a challenge, Ramon Montecillo believes surviving a stroke is a personal blessing. Montecillo had a stroke at 55 and says it was a tremendous challenge to recover physically and emotionally.
Two years later, he has learned to accept his “new normal” and has found his life purpose.
“Volunteering drives me onwards. Spiritual awareness enhances hope,” he says. “Family and friends provides stability. There is life after a stroke.”
Now, Nelson stroke survivors have a new place to go for help and hope: the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Living with Stroke program, designed to help stroke survivors and their families improve their quality of life, cope with challenges and connect with others.
Lead by volunteer facilitators and provided free in several BC communities, the program is comprised of eight weekly, two-hour sessions. Weekly topics include: impact of stroke, physical changes and keeping active; dealing with emotions and relationships; reducing future risk and nutrition.
All stroke survivors and their families are welcome to join. The Living with Stroke program takes place on eight consecutive Fridays from Oct. 2 to Nov. 13 from 10 a.m. to noon at Kalein Centre, 402 West Richards St.
To register, call 1-888-473-4636. For more information on stroke resources and the program, see: heartandstroke.bc.ca/livingwithstroke.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation’s mission is to prevent disease, save lives and promote recovery. Its vision is healthy lives, free of heart disease and stroke.