While they are skills most of take for granted, if you have suffered the effects of a stroke, simple acts like walking, talking, bathing, dressing yourself and even swallowing, can become a challenge. These are skills many have to relearn before enjoying at least a portion of the independence they once did. And now thanks to a new local stroke strategy program Yorkton and area residents can get the help they right here.
Each year more than 2,200 Saskatchewan residents suffer a stroke. In the past, the only hope for complete rehabilitation assistance meant a temporary relocation to Regina or Saskatoon. While the services are first rate, travelling can quickly become costly and inconvenient for family members and distance becomes a real barrier when it comes to regaining independence.
As of Monday however, a brand new opportunity for stroke victims officially exists in Yorkton, meaning residents can remain close to family support and receive the best integrated and continuous medical care available.
Programming is practical and prompt helping patients to relearn the skills they choose and to live a life as close to what they previously enjoyed as possible. It's a huge step for the region and a partnership that will benefit the entire region and province for years to come.
"You took me from someone who could barely walk to someone who could walk almost as good as before the stroke," said one grateful, local patient at a special celebration event held Monday.
"They helped me walk safely, taught me to manage around the house... But most importantly, my family was able to be with me every day as I was so close to home. Having them actively involved with my rehab program made all the difference to me," said another.
Hats off to the province, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Health Foundation which made possible the funding for needed equipment, and the Sunrise Health Region for taking action and bringing resources where they will make a difference.
