"I first became involved with SRSB in Sheffield after losing my sight from having a stroke. I was struggling with daily tasks, confidence, and adapting to sudden vision loss. My stroke team suggested SRSB as a place that could offer practical support and understanding, so they reached out and it quickly became a lifeline. "I’ve accessed mobility support, symbol cane, emotional support, and practical guidance around adapting to sight loss. I’ve also had help navigating benefits, equipment, and ways to stay independent at home.

"The service has been genuinely life-changing. They didn’t just offer support they offered understanding. My struggles are mostly invisible, and SRSB treated me with dignity, patience, and respect. They helped me rebuild confidence, find new ways of coping, and feel seen at a time when I felt misunderstood by many professionals.

"I previously worked in a hands‑on, practical role for a family nursery, building furniture for the children, from there I went to work in telecoms putting WiFi for virgin media all over the UK. Then I worked on a building site which was my favourite job of all time, where I would do anything and everything as well doing my own little business venture in carpentry. Before my stroke, I’d always been someone who stayed active and helped others. My career was built around hard work, independence, and supporting my family, values which I still carry with me today.

"I’m beginning to share my story to help others who face invisible disabilities. I decided to do this because I know how isolating it can feel when people don’t understand what you’re going through. Giving back helps me turn something painful into something meaningful. It gives me purpose, connection, and the chance to make sure no one feels alone in their recovery. I’m still writing my story and I want to publish it in the future as I’ve seen that there’s not a lot out there about strokes and stories of someone who’s gone through it at a young age like myself. 

“SRSB helped me feel seen again. Their support gave me confidence at a time when everything felt uncertain.

"Your disability doesn’t define who you are, you can do whatever you put your mind too. 

"I’d like to thank the team for their patience, kindness, and genuine care. Recovery isn’t a straight line, and they’ve walked alongside me through setbacks and progress. Their support has helped me adapt, stay hopeful, and keep moving forward."