Bunbury stroke team support Phil from hospital to finish line

When Bunbury local Phil Thompson was taken to the emergency department last year with weakness to his left side and slurred speech, he didn’t know if he’d be able to complete a fun run again.

This Stroke Week (5-11 August), Phil’s story highlights why knowing the signs of a stroke can help save a life.

Phil was rushed by ambulance to Bunbury Regional Hospital and was diagnosed with a stroke. A stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain is suddenly interrupted or stopped altogether.

In the following weeks, he was cared for by a range of experts - neurologists, doctors, nurses and allied health professionals for his treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery.

South West Stroke Coordinator Renee Dehring said strokes are serious but working with patients on their goals and rehabilitation is front of mind for the Bunbury inpatient and outpatient therapy teams.

“Strokes are serious, that’s why it’s so important that everyone knows the signs and what to do,” she said.

“In Phil’s case, we were able to treat him locally at the onset of his stroke and throughout his rehabilitation, which is always a great benefit to recovery.”

“Phil’s goals for his rehabilitation journey were about regaining his independence, fitness and returning to running, and we are so pleased that he’s been able to achieve this,” she added.

When Phil reflects on his time in hospital and his rehabilitation journey, he sings his praises of all staff.

“The staff from the wards to home did an incredible job with me and what I’ve achieved.

“As far as I am concerned it's all the occupational therapists, physiotherapists, nurses and doctors that deserve the credit – they got my health back in order.

“I can’t thank them enough,” he added.

Earlier this year Phil completed the Busselton Bay Run five-kilometre fun run. With guidance from his therapists and through his own determination he was able to cross the finish line with a smile on his face. By chance, he even met up with his local treating physiotherapist Amy Silvester at the end.

Now recovered from his stroke and recently celebrating his 74^th birthday, Phil is looking forward to his next Busselton Bay Run, spending time with his family, and continues keeping fit at home.

The Stroke Foundation recommends the F.A.S.T. test as an easy way to remember the most common signs of stroke. Using the F.A.S.T. test involves asking these simple questions:

Face - Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?

Arms - Can they lift both arms?

Speech - Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?

Time - Is critical. If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.