North Wales MS highlights stroke impact at Christmas
North Wales MS Mark Isherwood has urged people to “spare a thought for stroke survivors” this Christmas, describing how the condition can turn festive traditions into painful reminders of loss.
Speaking in the Senedd Chamber, Mr Isherwood used a 90-second statement to highlight research from the Stroke Association on the emotional and practical challenges many survivors face during the festive period.
He said: “Research by the Stroke Association reveals the emotional and practical challenges stroke survivors face during Christmas. Almost half feel negatively about the festive season and 30 per cent feel like a burden to loved ones. Amongst those who’ve experienced a post-stroke Christmas, 66 per cent report frustration at being unable to do what they once could.”
“There are over 85,000 people surviving a stroke annually in the UK, but recovery is long and gruelling. Mums, dads, grandparents, young people, even children – anyone can have a stroke, and its impact is traumatic.”
Mr Isherwood noted that brain damage caused by a stroke can leave survivors unable to move, speak, see or swallow, adding that festive activities many take for granted can become impossible.
“A survey of 1,000 stroke survivors highlights the impact on festive traditions: 28 per cent could not cook Christmas dinner; 26 per cent could not visit friends or leave the house; 23 per cent could not decorate the tree; 19 per cent could not play with children or grandchildren,” he said.
He shared the story of Ruth from Conwy, who had a stroke aged 36.
She described the lack of support following her diagnosis and the emotional and financial strain of her first Christmas afterwards.
Four years on, she said she has learned to embrace the festivities again with a new perspective.
“This Christmas Day, around 240 people in the UK will wake up to the life-changing impact of a stroke, which can cause paralysis, vision and speech problems, difficulty swallowing, personality changes and depression.”
Mr Isherwood added, “So, let us spare a thought for them and all stroke survivors on this Christmas Day.”
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