Somehow I returned to work on reduced hours and duties a week later, primarily because I had no leave and feared losing my job and financial independence, including my rental accommodation, without an income. This proved to be a challenging time. My work tasks and interactions took all my energy, literally, I was exhausted once I returned home and housekeeping was sorely neglected.

I learnt a significant amount during this period back at work, especially regarding the rehabilitative needs of younger higher functioning stroke survivors and also the supports required for them and for their colleagues within the workplace. I came to understand many of the barriers we face in returning to work and re-establishing our lives, and out of frustration I began to explore how we could better be enabled to return to work.

None of this was easy, all my learning has been hard fought for, and continues to be at times… however sometimes insight is only possible through experience, struggle, perseverance and determination. It is also about pushing forward and trying new things even if you initially doubt your abilities.

I have taken on a social work degree entirely post-stroke, and although some aspects have been a real struggle, the success I have experienced far outweighs this. I have learnt to not only ask why things are they way they are, but ensure that such questioning is coupled with ‘why not?’  Why can things not be different, improved, more inclusive of varying ability or needs? There is no reason why not, except for the dominant ways in our society. But this is still no reason why not – only it takes time, courage, effort and determination to work on implementing positive change, thus my challenging but exciting adventure of discovery and growth. The rewards being the support I gain through connection and the enriching relationships I develop along the way.