Deborah Ainscow honoured by the Stroke Association

Debbie Ainscow received her certificate from Sale Sharks rugby stars, Mark Cueto and Danny Cipriani

Deborah Ainscow, a stroke survivor from Littleborough has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association, in recognition of her courage and determination.

Mother of two, Deborah, 46, was a well-respected nurse for the NHS, having worked her way up to the role of Practice Education Facilitator over a 16 year career. However, Debbie had a severe stroke in January 2012, which took her speech, her ability to walk and communicate, and the movement in her right side.

After six months in hospital, Debbie returned home and was able to walk with a stick independently however, could still not communicate. Doctors told her she would probably never speak again. Sadly, during her rehabilitation, Debbie’s mother passed away suddenly and her relationship with her partner broke down, which lead Debbie to become increasingly distressed.

With support from the Stroke Association Communication Support Service, her family and friends, Debbie has worked tirelessly to regain her speech and movement. She even recently sang a surprise rendition of happy birthday to her son on his 21st birthday.

Debbie received her Highly Commended certificate from Dr Jordi Morrell, Stroke Consultant at Central Manchester Foundation Trust, and Sale Sharks rugby stars, Danny Cipriani and Mark Cueto, at a celebratory event at the AJ Bell Stadium, Salford on Tuesday 28 October.

Debbie’s lifelong friend Kath O’Donnell nominated her to receive the award. She said: “Debbie is the strongest, most determined person I know and she has such desire and enthusiasm to continue on her road to recovery. Debbie continues to improve and is a truly inspirational person.

“She was not allowed to walk, so she climbed four flights of stairs. Doctors said that she would not talk again, so she said, ‘Doctor, how are you?’ She had so much self-discipline and it began to pay off.”

Debbie’s partner Stephen, a stroke survivor himself, also nominated Debbie. He said: “I met Debbie in February 2013, when she was unable to communicate and now she has a vocabulary of more than 200 words, against all the odds. Despite her challenges, Debbie is a tower of strength and still manages to encourage me after my stroke. She is rebuilding her life, enjoying a passion for art and the theatre. Having a stroke has not stopped Debbie enjoying her life after stroke.”

Chris Larkin, Regional Head of Operations for the Stroke Association in the North West, added: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in the North West were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke, or in helping others to do the same. If you would like to nominate someone for their recovery or for doing something incredible to raise vital funds for people recovering from stroke, please nominate them for next year’s awards.”

The Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Awards recognise the courage shown by stroke survivors and carers as well as the great work and commitment shown by health professionals, groups and supporter organisations. Next year’s nominations open on 5 November 2014.