Trombone player Doug Sparkes thought his career with the VSO was over when he suffered a stroke in the summer of 2011 that left him initially paralyzed on his right side.
But by December 2012, he was back in his seat in the orchestra part-time and this spring he finished his first full year back.
Sparkes, 66, from Coquitlam, is the first to admit the road to recovery isn't easy. But he persevered through a life-saving operation and intensive physical therapy, losing 80 lb. in the process and shifting to a healthier lifestyle.
Now, stroke survivors have a new tool for help and hope: the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Living with Stroke program. The program is 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 B.C. 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 next Living With Stroke program runs on Tuesdays from Sept. 16 to Nov. 4, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Glen Pine Pavilion, 1200 Glen Pine Crt., Coquitlam.
To register, call 1-888-473-4636 or go to [email protected]. For more information on stroke resources and the program, see www.heartandstroke.bc.ca/livingwithstroke
The Heart and Stroke Foundation, a volunteer-based health charity, leads in eliminating heart disease and stroke and reducing their impact through the advancement of research and its application, the promotion of healthy living, and advocacy.
