National Stroke Week: Allan’s journey and the importance of stroke awareness

5 to 11 August 2024 is National Stroke Week - a crucial opportunity to raise awareness about stroke prevention, treatment, and recovery. This year, we share Allan’s story to highlight the profound impact a stroke can have on an individual’s life and the importance of timely and appropriate medical care.

Allan's medical journey: a life-altering experience

For 67-year-old Allan, 31 May 2021 was just like any other day – until it wasn’t. Allan suffered a choking episode, which resulted in him being taken to hospital, leading to subsequent complications that changed his life forever.

Allan’s ordeal began with a choking episode that led to his hospitalisation in June of 2021. While hospitalised, a gastroscopy revealed a mass of food in his oesophagus and a large polyp in his duodenum. A biopsy of the polyp revealed a benign tumour, and a follow up procedure was scheduled to remove the polyp.

Allan was under the impression that he would be undergoing a routine procedure to remove the polyp. However, given its location, it was a procedure that carried some significant risks, including heightened risk of post-procedure bleeding.

On 3 August 2021, Allan underwent polyp removal, but soon after discharge, he began developing symptoms of post-operative complications. This led to him being readmitted to hospital on 5 August 2021. Unfortunately, Allan’s post-operative bleeding was not identified during the hospital’s initial investigations.  

The stroke

On 6 August 2021, Allan lost a large amount of blood overnight. It is alleged that the significant blood loss and prolonged drop in Allan’s blood pressure caused reduced blood flow to Allan’s brain, resulting in him having a right hemispheric infarct (right-sided stroke).

This stroke resulted in significant neurological deficits, including left-sided paralysis, impaired speech, and difficulty swallowing. Following the stroke, Allan required significant rehabilitation and remained in hospital for approximately 4 months.

Allan’s life changed dramatically, leaving him bed- or wheelchair-bound and dependent on others for daily activities.

The aftermath of a severe stroke on Allan’s life

Allan used to be an active person who enjoyed fishing, gardening, and socialising before he had a stroke. He owned a boat and liked water-based activities such as fishing, crabbing, and skin diving. He also loved taking care of his garden and spending time with friends in the local area.

However, the stroke took away his independence and the activities he enjoyed. Now, he is dealing with emotional and physical challenges as he adjusts to a new way of life, missing the freedom and joy of his previous lifestyle.

Since the injury, Allan has been distressed by the loss of his independence and his old way of life. He misses seeing his friends, going out, and visiting the beach.

Allan’s wife, Molly, is now his sole carer and dedicates her time to ensuring that Allan receives all the necessary care and assistance he requires. This has taken a significant toll on their routine and has completely altered their intended retirement lifestyle. 

Concerns raised with Allan’s treatment

Allan’s case raises concerns about the standard of medical care he received.

It is alleged that Allan was let down at multiple points during his treatment, which all contributed to his severe post-operative haemorrhage and subsequent stroke. In a case like this, relevant failures could include:

• mistakes in pre-operative management.
• failing to minimise the risk of bleeding during the operation.
• releasing a patient from hospital too early.
• an unreasonable delay in diagnosing and treating a bleed after a return to hospital.

“While some post-operative complications are unavoidable, all reasonable steps should be taken by medical practitioners to ensure that patients like Allan receive adequate pre-operative advice, surgical treatment and post-operative monitoring”, says Samantha Green, Lawyer at Maurice Blackburn. If this had been the case, it is alleged that Allan would have avoided his injuries, including the stroke, and he could have enjoyed his retirement doing the things he loved. 

Nothing will ever be able to reverse the effects of Allan’s stroke or the permanent and detrimental impact it has had on his health and wellbeing. However, Allan has sought legal advice and assistance from Maurice Blackburn in the hopes of being able to improve his and Molly’s situation and provide for his significant ongoing needs. 

Raising awareness

Allan’s story underscores the importance of National Stroke Week in educating the public about stroke prevention and the signs of stroke, especially for those not in hospital care. Quick recognition and response can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients.

Here are some key points to remember:

• Recognise the Signs: Use the F.A.S.T. test to identify stroke symptoms:
  • Face drooping
  • Arm weakness
  • Speech difficulty
  • Time to call emergency services

• Preventive Measures: To reduce stroke risk, maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage chronic conditions, and follow medical advice.
• Support and Rehabilitation: Stroke recovery is a long journey. Support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends is crucial for rehabilitation and improving quality of life.

Allan’s experience is a poignant reminder of the devastating impact a stroke can have.

Sadly, Allan's story is not unique, which is why it's important to continue spreading awareness, supporting those affected by stroke, and advocating for better medical care to prevent such life-altering events. 

If you or a loved one has suffered because of a failed diagnosis or negligent medical treatment, our team of expert medical negligence lawyers are here to help you understand your legal options and to achieve the best possible outcome for you.