Legal Expert On Judging Panel Offers Advice As Stroke Association’s Awards Take Place

Tomorrow (Weds 16/11) is the Stroke Association’s ‘Life After Stroke Awards’ and to mark the occasion a member of the judging panel and medical negligence expert from Irwin Mitchell, Lisa Jordan, is offering advice to help those facing challenges caused by the condition.

Each year around 110,000 people in the UK have a stroke, a life-threatening medical condition caused by the blood supply to part of the brain being cut off.

Stroke, which is the UK’s fourth largest cause of death behind heart disease and cancer, is one of the biggest causes of disability.

A stroke requires immediate medical attention; the quicker a stroke patient receives treatment, the better their chances for a good recovery.

Due to her work with patients who have been misdiagnosed or experienced a delay in treatment for a stroke, Lisa Jordan partner and head of Irwin Mitchell’s medical negligence team has compiled a list of top tips for those affected by the condition. 

The firm are sponsoring this year’s Life After Stroke Awards, which take place in London tomorrow night, after working closely with the The Stroke Association, offering support and advice to survivors and their loved ones.

Based in the firm’s Birmingham office, Lisa, who is is a member of the Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Awards judging panel, said:

Expert Opinion

“Through our work, we see just how devastating the effects of a stroke can be, especially if opportunities to identify or treat them have been missed. It is this experience which drives us to, not only raise awareness of the warning signs of the condition but also, ensure stroke survivors have access to the highest quality of care and support in their rehabilitation.

By sharing some of our experiences with the condition we hope to help families who may be struggling with some of the day-to-day challenges caused by stroke.” Lisa Jordan - Partner

Get help immediately

“Time is of the essence, and as soon as you note signs of a stroke you must seek urgent medical attention. Slurred speech, numbness in one arm, facial weakness, high blood pressure and blood infections are all signs to look out for. The number of strokes in younger people is rising, so if you are at all concerned seek medical advice without delay.”

Assess your care needs

“The effects of a stroke can vary massively and you or a loved one may need to assess your care needs and requirements. For example, will you need to move home to something more suitable? Stroke injuries can be life changing and many stroke survivors require care and support after coming home from hospital. The local authority should come and conduct an assessment of your needs and arrange for the support that you need. They will also arrange for your home to be inspected to ensure that it is suitable for your needs and may recommend aids and equipment to make day-to-day life easier.”

Get support

“In addition to the local authority, there are many fantastic charities such the Stroke Association and Different Strokes who will provide support to stroke survivors and their families. In partnership with Different Strokes, we recently ensured their resource pack to help children understand the condition was made available in every stroke unit in England and Wales.”

Exercise

“Getting involved with disability sport, within your limits and under medical advice, can often be a good accompaniment to aid the physical aspects of rehabilitation. It can also help motivate and inspire people who are coming to terms with their new situation.”

Consider the Future

“If you haven’t already, it’s important to consider the future if you or a loved one has had a stroke. There can be Court Of Protection issues if a stroke victim has suffered from a degree of cognitive dysfunction and is no longer able to control decision about their finances and affairs. If you think a family member or loved one has lost mental capacity and can no longer make certain decisions it is important to take advice from a specialist court of protection lawyer. You may also need to consult a specialist lawyer about wills and lasting powers of attorneys to ensure your wishes are being respected in the future.”

Find out more about stroke.