A LOCAL stroke survivor has taken part in a campaign to improve awareness around the risks associated with hypertension.

Wellington resident Paul Chandler has shared his story about suffering a stroke as part of an NHS Somerset campaign which aims to encourage the public to take control of their health by checking their blood pressure.

“I got involved because I don’t want anyone else needlessly experiencing a life changing event that can be avoided,” he said.

Paul suffered a life altering cerebral stroke in 2021 and was told he may never have a normal life again.

The Swains Lane resident was 60 when he suffered his stroke and weighed more than 24 stone.

Paul’s wife, Coralie, found him on the floor of his study unable to move or speak properly with no understanding of what had happened.

Paul underwent a thrombectomy operation at Southmead Hospital, Bristol, to remove the blood clot from his brain before moving to Musgrove Park Hospital and then Williton Community Hospital’s stroke unit.

“Initially in Williton, I was told that due to the severity of my stroke I would most likely never walk, drive or be able to live at home. I thought, I am still alive, I will work my socks off to improve,” Paul said.

“I lost over 11 stone in the first year at home, and I re-sat my driving test in an adapted car. I can now also walk for short distances with a walking stick.

“But my brain just doesn’t work like it used to. I do have trouble speaking and walking.”

Around 27 years ago, Paul and his family moved to Wellington for his job, and he brought with him his lifelong passion for motorcycles.  

Before his stroke, Paul spent his time restoring and riding bikes, often showing them in local competitions. When he wasn’t showing them off, the collector would invariably ride his collection of classic Honda motorcycles.

Now, aged 63, after intense physiotherapy, Paul can do more than he was promised but he can no longer engage in his lifelong passion.

He said: “Having been a biker for over 44 years, I’m disappointed not to be able to ride. But hey, I’m alive.

“My wife Coralie has been my biggest supporter and without her I wouldn’t be here in this condition.

“My thanks go to all those who didn’t give up on me, including Ruby Smith and her care team who were amazing in helping me take control of showering, dressing myself and getting back on my feet.”

When Paul was recently asked to take part in the NHS campaign he was pleased to have the chance to support others by sharing his story.  

“Everywhere I went around town afterwards people kindly came up to me and said they had seen or heard the campaign and had got theirs done,” said Paul.

“Don’t leave it too late to get checked. I wouldn’t want my worst enemy to go through what I’ve been through.”

Find out more about high blood pressure (hypertension) at https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/risk-factors/high-blood-pressure