Irene never imagined her life would be changed instantly by a stroke. A busy and active mum, Irene had a stroke just two weeks after giving birth.

“Stroke takes everything away from you. I feel like it’s taken my freedom."

- Irene

Worried about the financial impact of her stroke, Irene turned to the Stroke Association.

"My Stroke Support Coordinator, Angela, came out to visit us at home. She was wonderful. She directed us to the local food banks and local charities that could help us.

Once she had visited, it felt like a weight had been lifted. She told me everything she was going to do, and it felt like the worry was gone. She kept me updated throughout it all.

If it wasn’t for her, we’d still be worrying now. We wouldn’t have had food in the cupboards or nappies for the kids"