Peter was just 45 when he suffered a life-changing stroke. He said: “My wife phoned an ambulance which took me to Altnagelvin Hospital, where the stroke team were waiting for me.
“I was paralysed on my left side, my speech was gobbledegook, and my face was all twisted. I was terrified, but the stroke team kept reassuring me.”
A consultant suggested thrombolysis, a common treatment used for stroke, which thankfully worked, and Peter was able to start moving his fingers and toes again. Despite being told he would need to remain in the hospital for months, Peter was discharged just nine days later.
Like Mark, Peter couldn’t return to work due to his fatigue and memory loss, but he longed for the structure and routine he once enjoyed, so he decided to take up volunteering.
“Someone suggested I start volunteering for Headway, who had just set up a support hub in Omagh and were planning on opening another in Derry,” said Peter. “I immediately clicked with the group In Omagh. I enjoyed meeting the remarkable people there, many of whom may have been invisible to me prior to my stroke.”
For the past eight years, Peter has dedicated much of his life to supporting fellow brain injury survivors through his voluntary role at Headway in Northern Ireland, delivering peer support meetings, offering transport and encouraging people with his great sense of humour.
During the Covid-19 pandemic and periods of lockdown, Peter played a crucial role in maintaining weekly contact with fellow brain injury survivors and was fundamental in keeping the group connected during uncertain times.
Through what was a very challenging time, especially for those living with a brain injury, Peter ensured those most isolated from society were safe and supported, keeping their spirits up with a laugh and a joke when things got tough.
He said: “Peer support is really important at Headway as is having craic and a good laugh. Helping others has been the best medicine I have found.
“Having the stroke and volunteering have both totally changed my life. I can honestly say I prefer my life now as I have learnt to slow down and to realise what is important in life.”
Peter was nominated for Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors, by Sam Duncan at Headway in Northern Ireland. He said: “For Peter to be shortlisted for this award is a fantastic acknowledgement of the long and continued service he has given to Headway, especially through the challenges of the Covid pandemic.
“Peter’s inspiring dedication to help and support others does not go unnoticed. He is a valued member of our team, and we all appreciate the contribution he so generously gives each week to our groups.”
The Achiever of the Year and Volunteer of the Year will be named at a prestigious ceremony at The Landmark London, along with Carer of the Year and the Stephen McAleese Outstanding Contribution to Headway Award.
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