Tallaght stroke survivors support group launches tonight

By Mary Dennehy

A NEW weekly support group for stroke survivors is being launched by the Irish Heart Foundation and Tallaght Hospital at a public information evening in the Maldron Hotel on Thursday, May 25.

The group is the latest in a national network of weekly stroke clubs being developed by the Irish Heart Foundation after research among stroke survivors revealed the high importance they place on weekly support to aid their recovery.

The aim of the group is to offer support, assistance, advice and physical therapies, as well as a social outlet, to stroke survivors and their carers.

The weekly meeting, which will replace the monthly group that has been run by the stroke team in Tallaght Hospital for many years, will start this June at the Rua Red county arts centre – beside The Square Luas stop.

However, ahead of the group commencing, the Irish Heart Foundation and the members of the stroke team at Tallaght Hospital will hold a public information evening in the Maldron Hotel, Tallaght.

Commenting on the launch of the initiative, Dr Ronan Collins, the Director of Stroke Services in Tallaght Hospital said: “Strokes affect different people in different ways, depending on the type of stroke, the area of the brain affected and the extent of the brain injury, and the impact can range from very mild to severe or even fatal.

“However sudden onset of weakness of Face, Arm or affected Speech means Time is of the essence (FAST) in getting to hospital.

“FAST symptoms are some of the commonest symptoms of stroke – but sudden onset of severe headache, impaired balance, visual loss, sudden confusion can be others”

He added: “After acute hospital treatment rehabilitation and support services are crucial in helping to minimise the effects of stroke and help return a person to as full a life as possible.

“This journey can be difficult and we are delighted to partner with Irish Heart to provide a weekly Support Group to all those in Tallaght affected by stroke.”

Chris Macey, Head of Advocacy in Irish Heart added: “Research carried out for Irish Heart by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland shows that weekly support groups are vital in assisting stroke survivors to regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

“We are determined to ensure that stroke sufferers in Tallaght and every community in the country have access to a support group.”

The launch of the Stroke Support Group will take place at the Maldron Hotel in Tallaght from 7pm to 8.30pm on Thursday May 25 next. Key speakers will include Dr Ronan Collins, Consultant Physician, Tallaght Hospital, Dr Aine Connolly, Clinical Neuropsychologist, Tallaght Hospital and Chris Macey, Head of Advocacy, Irish Heart.

Anyone who wishes to attend the meeting should email advocacy@irishheart.ie or call 4143219.