Client Dairies: Homai Dudha

A bit about me:

My name is Homai Dudha. I am 85 years old. I was a housewife. I have 3 children & 5 great grandchildren. I love cooking, sewing, watching movies & spending time with my family!

My Stroke:

I suffered a Stroke in September 2023. My Stroke was due to Atrial Fibrillation. At 1.00am on the 12th September I woke up feeling very uneasy. I walked towards the kitchen & I collapsed. My son woke up & found me on the floor. I didn’t have the usual stroke symptoms. My family & the paramedics were unsure about what had happened to me.

Once I was taken to hospital, the CT scan had confirmed a Stroke. I spent 3 weeks in hospital with my family by my side.

Difficulties I experienced as a result of my stroke:

Due to the Stroke I was not able to talk much… I had forgotten the English language & names of my family members, although I did recognise them. Physically my body was very weak due to the fall. I needed constant supervision & became tired very frequently . I enjoyed doing small tasks around the house with breaks in between. Due to my age with the impact of the Stroke I realised I could not do as much physically as I used too…

My Therapy:

I received therapy in the community at home (Physio,OT & Speech Therapy). However this was limited, & my communication difficulties was an issue. My granddaughter found Tina (Speech Therapist) via her website. I am working with Tina on my communication. Since my sessions with Tina, my speech has improved where I can hold conversations in Gujrati, Hindi & my English is improving.

My advice to fellow stroke victims:

It can seem like your life can’t be the same anymore, & whilst there maybe a little bit of truth in that, the reality is that if you have the willpower, strength & support you can survive this & bring your life back to somewhat of normalcy.

To the families:

It can be heartbreaking to witness your loved one go through this & you can easily feel helpless. However there is plenty of support, advice & guidance to pull you through this. Both of you will see good days & tough days. There is light at the end of the tunnel.