Financial concerns of Newark stroke survivors Sam Hodson revealed

A young stroke victim has spoken out about the financial hardship caused by her illness as a Stroke Association survey reveals the difficulties faced by people during and after their recovery.

Working mother Sam Hodson, from Newark, was 41 when she had her stroke in November 2018 and has faced financial hardship ever since.

Her stroke was caused by a hole in her heart and she is still on a waiting list for a procedure to close this. She has been left with aphasia, whole left-side weakness, and major fatigue, among other symptoms.

Sam said: “At the time, I remember thinking ‘I’m going to die.’ It was the most terrifying moment of my life. While my recovery has been good physically, I suffer from extreme anxiety and depression, and I always have the fear of having another stroke.”

Sam worked with adults with learning difficulties, but since the stroke she has had to cope not only with the resulting physical and mental challenges but has also financial struggles. She feels the government support just isn’t there when she isn’t able to work.

Sam said: “Financial struggles have definitely hindered my recovery, especially with having a family and a mortgage.

“More needs to be done to help families in this situation.

“The waiting time for help is ridiculous. I think the government and Department of Work and Pensions need to look into help for people after sudden illnesses like stroke.”

Sam has made progress in her physical recovery but is still waiting for further tests before she can consider going back to work. She is keen to go back and says her employer, Reach Care in Newark, has been very supportive.

Nearly half of working age stroke survivors face financial hardship, according to figures published by the Stroke Association. Its Lived Experience report is the UK’s largest ever survey of people affected by stroke.

Juliet Bouverie, chief executive of the Stroke Association, said: “Life changes instantly after a stroke, and the condition can have a huge cost, not only to people’s finances, but also to their health, independence and relationships. But not enough people realise the wider impacts that stroke can bring. Overnight, a partner becomes a carer. A breadwinner becomes jobless.

“These latest figures show that many stroke survivors are facing a life on the edge of poverty. Many have had to give up work, and in some cases, face discrimination from their employers. This comes at a time when financial worries should be the last thing on their minds.”

The Stroke Helpline ­— 0303 3033 100 ­— offers information and support to people affected by stroke.