Cork Group Celebrates 1st Anniversary

The term Stroke Survivor focuses on a person’s resilience, hopefulness and ability. This underpins activities of the Cork Stroke Support Group (CSSG) which celebrate their first anniversary on January 25th.  It has been a successful year with active participation in fun based exercise group activities, information sessions and outings.

Critical to the success of the CSSG group has been the sharing of information and experiences and development of friendships.  A core group of stroke survivors and carers together with informed facilitators provide welcome support to newcomers particularly in the post-discharge home when the need for information and support is often greatest. Surviving a stroke and working at rehabilitation require strength of both body and spirit. Family involvement and peer support bolsters coping strategies.

Many of the CSSG management committee members have had personal experience of the impact of a stroke and their unique perspective has informed strategic direction of the group. Involvement of key stakeholders has facilitated more ambitious plans for 2012 which include hydrotherapy sessions, yoga, computer classes and art therapy. While the association is not HSE funded, we are grateful for professional input, management support and the use of facilities on St Finbarr’s Hospital site.

Involvement of the Irish Heart Foundation assists with communication with members, promotion of activities through the website www.stroke.ie, and collective political influence of stroke support groups around the country. With cutbacks and limited resources, it is important that Stroke Survivors have a platform to raise key issues. Photographed above are members of the CSSG management committee with TD Dara Murphy at an organised lobby day in Leinster House on November 10th.

The Cork Stroke Support Group meet on the last Wednesday of every month, 2 - 4pm in the Activity Centre St Finbarr’s Hospital. On January 25th , the session will include reflection on 2011 activities and plans for 2012. As part of this celebratory event, music & refreshments will be provided. Contact details for CSSG, 086 7871999 / 087 3569555, cssg@vodafone.ie.