Mark worked in the police force for 22 years, loved all things outdoors, and was an avid cyclist. After he left the police force, he ran a successful construction company until he suffered a stroke in 2012, when he was only 51 years old. Recovery has been difficult and sadly Mark could not continue to run his business. Giving up the work he loved, as well as many of the outdoor activities he enjoyed, like cycling and tennis, has been hard. But, Mark has found a way to keep enjoying the things he once did in a different way. Now, he lets out his competitive side with online chess and is the member you want by your side in any competition we have in our physical therapy groups. Mark is an energetic and social member of our group that always has fun, no matter what he does. He never gives up and always lends a helping hand to members that are not as physically able as he is.

Hester is one of the bravest women you will ever have the privilege to know. She was a hard-working single mother of two boys when she had a stroke at the age of 46 years, which sounds young, but the reality is that a stroke can happen at any age. Her stroke left her paralysed on the right-hand side of her body—her dominant side. She has had to learn how to navigate the world with only her left arm and hand.The stroke also affected the right side of her brain, which includes the area that processes language. As a result, Hester suffers from Aphasia. She struggles to understand, speak, read, and write the languages she has known all her life. But, Hester does not let this frustration get the best of her. She is an incredibly strong lady and an integral part of our group. Her positivity is an inspiration for all of us.

Danny was a prosecutor, loving husband, and father of two when his life was turned upside down by a hijacking gone wrong. He was severely beaten during the attack and left in a coma for two months. When he came out of his coma, he had to relearn basics like eating, talking, and walking. Even recognising his family was a struggle. Because of the brain injury, Danny couldn’t go back to work, which means that Tinyiko now has to be a mother, wife and the breadwinner. Together this family has already overcome so much—not just the financial and physical challenges, but also learning to live with the emotional changes after brain injury. Danny is a kind and loving member of our group who lives out his Christianity. He loves his family and is very proud of them. Danny and his wife Tinyiko are always doing their part to educate those around them, helping the broader community understand brain injuries better.