Stroke News 2015 (Issue 2)

ISSUE 2
APRIL
2015
KDN PP 10647/04/2013 (032074)
At 33, Vincent Chan
values his ability to cope
independently following two
debilitating strokes.
STROKE is the 2nd major cause of death in Malaysia!
Founder Chairman’s Message
Stroke can happen to anyone, even the young, and at any time. I had my stroke at
the age of 44. Everyone - my relatives, friends, business associates - was surprised
that I had it at such a young age.
Is 44 a young age? I guess it is in the context of stroke.
For the longest time stroke has been regarded as a health issue you may get as you
grow older, like above 70. In fact when we first started NASAM in 1996, people
were reluctant to volunteer at our centre. In their minds stroke survivors were old,
sickly, frail and had little hope of recovery. We had to convince them (and are still
doing so today) that it is a myth to think that stroke only affects the aged.
These days, stroke survivors are getting younger. At NASAM we have seen
children, from as young as the age of 1, with stroke. According to studies, the risk
of stroke in children is greatest in the first year of life and during the period right
before birth to immediately after birth.
Stroke is a brain attack. When someone has stroke, he or she either dies or lives
with disabilities for the rest of his or her life. And as the stroke survivor copes
with tough challenges, the family too is forced to make changes, especially the
carer. Many families unable to cope with this dramatic change have fallen apart.
In young adults, what follows after a stroke can be extremely damaging, as careers
or education comes to a standstill. There are also frustrations due to isolation
from peer groups. It’s critical that these young adults receive the right support and
expert advice fast to help get them back on track.
At NASAM we advocate prompt rehabilitation for the stroke survivor and
counselling for the carer. Over the years we have encouraged and guided
thousands of stroke survivors and their families to begin a new journey and to
celebrate life after stroke.
YES! THERE IS LIFE AFTER STROKE.
Janet Yeo
Founder Chairman
Inspiration
LIFE AFTER
STROKE
It was just like any other night… mechanical engineer Vincent Chan Voon Shen, a 32-year old
bachelor had returned home after dinner with friends, which was almost a daily ritual since he
did not want to eat alone. A Malaysian, Vincent was educated and working in Singapore while
his parents and other family members lived in Kuala Lumpur. On arriving home Vincent got
ready for bed. After only a couple of hours of sleep he woke up. “I felt numb on my left arm and
leg. It was very irritating,” recalled Vincent when Stroke news
met up with him in NASAM
PJ, in January this year.
When asked to describe the irritation, he said: “It is like
getting a jab in your gum at the dentist. The feeling is
exactly the same. I tried to ignore it and continued to
lie down hoping that I would fall asleep. After about
two hours I was so irritated by the numbness that I had
to do something.”
Vincent decided to call a friend, who accompanied
him to the A&E section of NUH (National University
Hospital). This was on October 19, 2013. Up until then
his major health issues were hypertension and diabetes
for which he was on medication, and ankylosing
spondylitis*, which had caused a backache some years
back. After a battery of tests and a CT scan Vincent
was informed that he had suffered a stroke. The scan
showed that a nerve towards the left side of the brain
was swollen. “It was baffling, because in stroke this
would cause my right side to be affected and not the
left as was in my case,” explained Vincent. “I spent two
days in hospital, and with medication the numbness
eased and I felt better. I returned for a review every
three months, and after a year, in November 2014, my
doctor declared I had fully recovered.”
near home for two to three hours. His new health
regime also meant he had to watch what he ate and
drank. His weight at the time he had his first stroke
was 105 kg.
Two months after his first stroke, on November 20,
2013, Vincent was at work when his speech started
to slur and he could not move his lower jaw. “It felt
strange. I could move, there was nothing wrong with
my limbs, but my jaws and vocal chords were not
cooperating. I went back to NUH suspecting I had
suffered a stroke.”
This time he stayed in hospital for nine days. “On the
first day I panicked and was actually afraid. Nobody
seemed to know what was happening to me. My basic
test results were all normal so I was not put on any
medication. For the next four or five days more and
more tests were done.” Eventually, the results of an
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) procedure
showed that the seventh facial or cranial nerve was
infected. It was confirmed he was not suffering from a
stroke but from a type of bacterial infection known as
Group B Streptococcus or GBS. With medication he
By now Vincent was on a keep-fit programme and fully recovered in about three weeks but still had some
together with friends jogged and exercised in a Park speech difficulty.
*ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS is an inflammatory disease that can cause some of the vertebrae in the
spine to fuse together. This fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched-forward posture. If
ribs are affected, it may be difficult to breathe deeply. This condition affects men more often than women and
typically begins in early adulthood. Treatment can decrease pain and lessen symptoms – Mayo Clinic
3
Re-assured by the fact that chances of a recurrence of
GBS are low, Vincent resumed work and his proactive
lifestyle. In addition to jogging and exercising at
the Park, he passionately resumed his interest in
motorsports. Along with a group of friends, he would
travel to Sepang, near KLIA or Pasir Gudang in Johor,
once every two months and spend about three hours on
the track, “not racing’’ he clarifies, but sharpening his
motoring skills. “Motor racing allows me to improve
my driving skills and style of driving,” explained
Vincent. “It’s safer to experiment at high speeds on
the track than on the road. I feel like I am not only
testing the car’s performance but also my limits. It’s
a moment of reckoning, a moment when I understand
my own limits.”
The road to recovery depends on willpower, says Vincent.
24, 2014, he was wheeled into NASAM PJ for
While some people, including his parents, consider rehabilitation. His balance and gait were poor. He
motor sports dangerous, Vincent is quick to add that could not walk independently – he needed an aid and
it is a safe sport because you are driving within a was put under supervision. After his assessment, it
was recommended that he undergo one-on-one as
controlled environment.
well as group therapy.
As time went by, Vincent once again was enjoying
life full throttle. He worked hard, enjoyed the Driven by sheer determination, Vincent discarded
camaraderie of friends and, like most in their 30s, he his wheelchair after one week. He shares: “I felt
totally inadequate being confined to a wheelchair and
continued to make plans for his future.
needing help for everything, from wearing clothes,
to eating and going to the toilet. I was frustrated.
From being totally independent, from a young age,
to being totally dependent at 33 was something
I could not accept. Initially, I was disheartened,
because after the first stroke I had made an effort to
change my lifestyle and yet it had happened again,
this time so bad that I was confined to a wheelchair.
It’s like studying hard in school and preparing for
exams, yet getting poor results.”
Enjoying life full throttle.
About 18 months following his first stroke, on
December 10, 2014, he woke up with the same good
intentions of getting ready for work. However, when
he tried to walk, he found both his legs wobbly.
Somehow he persevered and managed to wash up
and get ready. Then his speech started to slur. At that
time his brother, who was visiting and staying with
him, managed to get him to the hospital. Once again
he was put through all the tests. An MRI showed a
blood clot in his mid-brain, towards the back of his
head. He was having his second stroke.
This time Vincent was admitted for 10 days. Once
his condition stabilised, the doctors advocated
rehabilitation therapy. Since family support was
in KL, he was brought to Malaysia. On December
4
But with good family support and the ideal
environment and motivation at NASAM PJ, Vincent
was able to convince himself that this was only a
temporary setback. He worked hard at rehabilitation.
He was at NASAM every day, accompanied by his
69-year old father Chan Yop Liong and 67-year old
mother Ong Kim Kat.
His recovery was so good that after four sessions
he did not need private rehab; and in group therapy
he was soon elevated to the intermediate session. At
the end of January, about six weeks after his second
stroke, Vincent Chan was ready to leave NASAM
and consider heading back to his job in Singapore.
The results of his dedication and commitment to
living a normal life after stroke was evident, not
only in his confident gait but also in a much trimmer
physique at 95 kg - 10 kg lighter than when he had
his first stroke.
Mr Chan Yop Liong and his wife Ong Kim Kat,
parents of stroke survivor Vincent Chan, shared their
:
sentiments with
Lessons from stroke shared
by Vincent Chan:
“We were scared and very upset when we heard our ■ The road to recovery can be fast or slow. It really
depends on your willpower to get back on track.
son had a stroke. How could it be? He is so young.
We didn’t know what to do and we worried about his
future. We live in KL and he lives in Singapore, we ■ Be positive. Don’t feel sorry and keep dwelling on
why it happened to you. Instead plan how to live
are not there with him every day… anything could
with it.
happen.
“When he suffered his second stroke, we were even ■ If you think you cannot recover, you will never
get back to leading a normal life.
more afraid because it was worse. But we are very
happy to see him show such great determination and
recover so fast. We pray hard that we don’t have to ■ Life is tough, but would you rather be without
life? So live LIFE to the fullest.
go through this again.”
While Mr Chan has no health issues and walks ■ Be grateful for family support. Family and friends
are always important, you don’t have to be sick to
45 minutes every morning, his wife discovered
realise or appreciate their value.
she had diabetes when she was in her 50s and is
on medication. The couple advocate eating three
healthy meals a day. Breakfast is a must and meals
must be had punctually, in controlled amounts.
Stroke Risk Score Card
Risk of stroke increases as you get older. After the age of 55, the risk of having a stroke doubles for every decade you
are alive. The best way to prevent stroke is to reduce the risk factors associated with stroke. Risk factors include high
blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, alcohol and lack of exercise. Consult your doctor if you
have any risk factor.
Risk Factors
Readings
High Risks
Caution
Low Risk
Blood Pressure (mm/Hg)*
h 140/90 or unknown
h 120-139/80-89
i 120/80
Cholesterol (mmol/l)*
h 6.2
5.2-6.2
i 5.2
Diabetes
Yes
Borderline
No
Atrial Fibrillation
Irregular heartbeat
I don’t know
Regular heartbeat
Smoking
Current smoker,
20 cigarettes/day
Trying to quit or has quit
for less than 5 years
Non-smoker or has quit
for more than 5 years ago
Exercise
Sedentary lifestyle, very
little or no physical activities
Some exercise, moderately
active once or twice a week
Regular exercise, 30 minutes
a day for 5 times a week
Diet (BM) = Weight (kg)/
Height (m) x Height (m)
Overweight
(BMI = 27.5 to 29.9)
Slightly overweight
(BMI = 25 to 27.4)
Healthy weight
(BMI = 18.5 to 24.9)
Family history of stroke/TIA
Yes
Not sure
No
TOTAL SCORE (each box = 1)
High Risk
Caution
Low Risk
1. Check each box that applies to you.
2. *Consult your doctor if you do not know your blood pressure or cholesterol reading.
This stroke risk card is adapted from the National Stroke Association (USA) and modified by NASAM.
5
Health
STROKE
IN THE YOUNG
Contributed by Abdullah Asad
Siddiqui, Emergency Physician
and Occupational Health Doctor,
Ara Damansara Medical Centre.
- BELOW 45 YEARS
There is no such thing as being too young for Stroke.
Agreed that the chances of stroke risk increases with
age, however, these days there is growing concern
that stroke is increasingly affecting all age groups.
It is becoming more common in infants, children,
adolescents and young adults. If I had to define what I
consider as young age, I would say below 45.
Here are some prevention strategies for stroke at any
age:
■
Work with your doctor to identify underlying
diseases
■
Eat a diet low in saturated fats and high in fruits,
vegetables and whole grains
Stroke in this younger age group requires a different ■ Control high blood pressure and high cholesterol
at an early age
approach and management because we are looking at
different causes.
■ Recognise and control diabetes
All stroke is caused by decreased blood supply to the
■ Avoid alcohol, drugs and smoking
brain. In children, common causes include infections,
trauma, heart disorders, sickle cell disease and ■ Avoid sedentary lifestyles
dehydration.
One of the biggest differences between stroke in the
Cardiogenic or heart-related cases account for most aged and in the young is in the recovery. Due to better
strokes in young adults, followed by drug abuse, brain plasticity (or the brain’s ability to cope), the
particularly intravenous drugs. Cardiogenic causes younger age group tends to recover better.
may include rheumatic heart disease, heart valve
abnormalities and being born with a hole between the
right and left side of the heart. Other causes of stroke
Read more:
include an accumulation of blood or clots in blood
NEW RESEARCH INTO TREATMENT OF
vessels in the neck, birth control pills and of course
COMMON CAUSE OF STROKE IN YOUNG
smoking.
PEOPLE
www.stroke.org.uk
WHY YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE STROKES
www.webmd.com/stroke/news
6
Partnering NASAM In Stroke Education
Health
MALAYSIA
HAS A ‘SICK’
POPULATION
63%
of adults, ag
ed 18 years
and above, h
ave at least
one
of these risk
fa
ct
o
rs
–
obesity, high
blood p
high blood su ressure,
g
high blood ch ar or
olesterol.
In this article Stroke News
has used excerpts of a letter by
Datuk Dr Lokman Hakim Sulaiman, Deputy Director General
of Health (Public Health) and Dr Feisul Idzwan Mustapha, Public
Health Physician (NCD), Ministry of Health, Malaysia that appeared
in The Star on March 2, 2015.
According to the doctors the Ministry of Health (MOH)
is extremely concerned with the increasing burden of
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Malaysia,
not only among the working population but also the
population at large. “Data from our National and
Health Morbidity Survey (NHMS) demonstrates that
at least 63% of adults, aged 18 years and above, have at
least one NCD risk factor namely overweight/obesity,
high blood pressure, high blood sugar or high blood
cholesterol. A report from SOCSO (Social Security
Organisation) provides further evidence to this fact.”
The SOCSO report shows that only about 16% or
308,039 out of 1.9 million of its members have used
their vouchers. So the question asked is why are more
Malaysians not getting themselves screened when
availability and accessibility of screening facilities is
not an issue. After all, there are many private clinics
throughout Malaysia, and most have extended working
hours.
The doctors also reminded organisations that employees
are human capital. “Employers must invest to get the
best value from their human capital. Without this
investment in health, employers will continue to face
the double burden of loss of productivity and increased
medical costs.
“Even SOCSO we believe will soon reach a point
where current premium rates will not be able to sustain
the claims made due to NCD-related complications,”
they warn.
“Changing human behaviour and organisational
behaviour is not easy and that is why we need everyone
on board. As we head towards a developed-nation
status by 2020 – unless we address this dichotomy of
Over the years the MOH has continuously promoted the how low Malaysians value health – that achievement
importance of annual health screening. NCD is a silent will ring hollow. NCD is one of the most important
disease and the MOH has continuously advocated this challenges that must be tackled collectively by all
message as well. However, NHMS shows that a large Malaysians,” they concluded.
number of Malaysians remain undiagnosed with NCD
risk factors because they do not undergo regular health
screenings. When symptoms develop, they are likely
to be in an advanced stage of the disease, which means
they are more difficult and more costly to manage, and
have irreversible health consequences.
7
Health
EASY TIPS TO
AVOID DEPRESSION
Make Your Today A Great One! We all have days where we feel a
little low or out of sorts. But the good news is that once you know a few simple tricks, it’s easy
to shift your mood from dull to deliciously inspired in just a few minutes. Here are some simple
things you can do to lift your spirits anytime, anyplace, anywhere:
Feed Your Ears With Inspiration
It’s not hard to believe. Most people have a positive
Listening to energising music is one of the fastest, reaction to flowers. So why not exercise a little selflove and treat yourself to a nice bouquet or take a
easiest ways to elevate your mood.
Put on one or two of your favourite songs and you’ll leisurely walk in a garden? If you get some flowers
be surprised how quickly you start to feel more put them in an area of your home or office where
you can see them, and you’ll be surprised how a few
positive about yourself and your day!
delicate buds can lift your spirits.
Invite Positive People Into Your Space
One of the best ways to pull yourself out of the
doldrums is to spend a little time with someone who
has an abundance of positive energy. But if a close
friend or family member isn’t nearby, here’s the next
best thing…listen to an “inspirational video or CD”
where motivational people share inspiring things
that’ll uplift your mind and spirit. As the learning
centers of your brain are activated, you’ll quickly
experience a nice jolt of positivity.
Do Not Dwell On Unhappiness
If you’re feeling a bit down, it’s important to be gentle
with yourself. A lot of people who feel unhappy
further reinforce this emotional state by dwelling on
their unhappiness. Try and remember that it’s natural
for human emotions to go up and down. Take a deep
breath and tell yourself that this emotion too will pass.
Source: www.abundantentrepreneurmail.com
Laugh It Off
Laughter is one of the most effective antidotes
for a heavy mood. Laughing and smiling releases
endorphins…the “happy hormones” produced in the
brain that are widely regarded as nature’s cure for the
blues.
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
Beautify Your Space
Eckhart Tolle, widely recognised as one of the most
inspiring and original spiritual teachers of our time,
writes that gazing at flowers instils peace within us.
Volunteer and stroke survivor Alvin Lau offering peer support to
Jason Chan (left), a 40-year old who suffered a stroke last year.
NASAM offers counselling for stroke survivors
and caregivers. There are group and one-on-one
sessions. Stroke survivors volunteer by sharing their
personal experiences of coping with the stroke and
their journey to a functional life. This peer support
empowers and inspires new members throughout
their time at NASAM.
8
Caregiving Insights
Qamer Iqbal Khan
NASAM’s Rehabilitation Training
& Development Head
(BPTh,MPTh)
SITTING OR LYING
IN BED AFTER STROKE
It is best for caregivers to seek professional help to understand how to position a stroke survivor
in a safe and comfortable way when lying or sitting in bed. Due to stroke the muscles and joints
can be affected in many ways causing muscle shortening, pain and stiffness. There can also be
difficulty with speed and the full movement of a joint. By properly supporting the body and
aligning it, you, as a caregiver, can prevent the condition from worsening.
(Only try these positions if the survivor is comfortable and take into consideration other issues such
as bed sores and fractures.)
By positioning
the body the right
way you can:
1
• Avoid shoulder pain
• Improve movement of joints
• Stretch muscles
• Have more independence
• Prevent and reduce partial • Increase awareness of the affected limbs
dislocation of shoulder
2
LYING ON THE STROKE SIDE
LYING ON THE UNAFFECTED SIDE
■Use
■Use
one or two pillows as head rest
■Position the affected shoulder comfortably
■Make sure the body weight is on the shoulder blade
and not on the tip of the shoulder
■Ensure the trunk is stretched and the good hand can
be placed towards the pillow at the back
■Place the unaffected leg forward on one or two
pillows
■Place additional pillows behind the body
■Change the position after two hours
one or two pillows as head rest
■Support affected arm on additional pillow
■Place affected leg on one or two pillows and
allow body to lean slightly on the pillow in front
■Change the position after two hours
n
Sa
n
o
Bo ith
g
w
On sted
r
i
o
viv y ass
r
u
l
s e
.
ke gam bove
o
r
a
st o
to , wh otos
s
nk ng ph
tha le O the
l
c
a
9
eci r Un
p
S o
Caregiving Insights
3
4
LYING ON THE BACK
SITTING ON THE BED
■Place pillows
■When sitting upright make sure the body is well
to support head
■Place small pillow or rolled towel to support
shoulder and shoulder blades
■Support both arms with pillows
■Use pillow to support the affected leg
■Feet should be in neutral position
(toes facing upwards)
■Change position after 30-45 minutes
supported by pillows
■Place affected arm on pillows
■Feet should be in neutral position
(toes facing upwards)
■Sit for as long as is comfortable
NOTE:
From the early stages of post stroke it is important to pay attention to the positioning of a stroke survivor.
A good posture:
• Normalises muscle tone and encourages greater
flexibility of the joints
• Promotes faster recovery
• Increases ability to interact with the environment
• Supports paralysed limbs
• Prevents pain
If you have any questions related to caring for a stroke survivor contact Qamer at [email protected] /
014-3239843 or 03-79561876 ext. 103.
STROKE
Know The Signs
– Act Fast!
Two million brain cells die every minute
during a stroke, increasing the risk of
permanent brain damage, disability or
death. Recognising symptoms and acting
FAST to get medical attention can save a
life and limit disabilities. The sooner you
notice the signs of stroke and call 999, the
better the recovery. Take a minute to learn
how to act F.A.S.T. It’s an easy way to
remember the signs of stroke!
10
F
A
S
T
Facial Drooping:
Ask the person to smile.
Does one side of the face droop?
Arms Weakness:
Ask the person to raise both arms.
Is one arm weak and drifting downwards?
Speech Difficulty:
Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase.
Is their speech slurred or strange?
Time To Call
If you observe any of these signs,
call 999 immediately!
NASAM News
FOOD AND
FUN FAIR
- TAMAN JAYA
SUNDAY, JUNE 14, 2015
NASAM‘s annual fund raising event ‘Fun Fair
At The Park’ will soon be upon us. Mark your
calendars for this day of family fun … from
alfresco dining Malaysian-style to exciting
games and stalls selling crafts and various other
products.
This year’s event promises to be even bigger
with more than 60 stalls.
All funds raised will be channelled into the
ongoing operations of our Centres where
members enjoy a range of affordable rehab
services. NASAM looks forward to your kind
support and highly valued contributions.
So do come and join us at Taman Jaya, on
Sunday, June 14, 2015 from 8am to 2pm.
You Can Also Help By:
• Making a donation – online through www.nasam.
org /our account Maybank 5122 3152 0534 and fax/
scan your bank-in-slip to 03-79310087 or email to
[email protected].
• Buying coupons – each booklet costs RM10 and is
available from NASAM
• Sponsoring a stall for RM3,000
• Donating or sponsoring products/items for sale at our
stalls
Please contact Nancy Yap at 03-79561876 or email
[email protected]
11
NASAM News
SKILLS
UPGRADING FOR
NASAM THERAPISTS
For the first time in its 19-year history an intensive in-house
training programme, that was specially developed for NASAM,
kicked off at the PJ Centre on March 8. The 12-month
programme has been put together by Lim Yi Lin, a member of
the NASAM Board, who is a very experienced physiotherapist
and owns a successful physiotherapy clinic in Petaling Jaya.
The training will be held in four key centres – PJ, Penang, Johor
and Kuantan.
Yi Lin believes in the mentor and mentoring concept and it
is her desire to help upgrade the level of physiotherapists in
Malaysia, not only in the area of skills and knowledge but also
in confidence, management and leadership. NASAM, according
to founder and chairman Janet Yeo, embraces the same vision.
Raising physiotherapists’ standards through intensive
training.
“It is our hope that through this training programme we will see
the emergence of a special group of NASAM Rehab Therapists
who are knowledgeable, skillful in areas of Stroke Rehabilitation
and confident in managing our NASAM centres,” added Janet.
“We are offering our therapists an opportunity to grow their
chosen careers. It has taken many, many months for the NASAM
management and our trainer to prepare a conducive programme.
The ultimate objective is to raise our physiotherapy standards to
a higher level.”
The programme takes therapists through theory and practicals.
It focuses on skills as well as leadership and teamwork.
This training programme, to help NASAM raise its physiotherapy
standards to a higher level, was made possible by a stroke
survivor who sponsored the entire cost of the project.
Trainer Yi Lin is a member of
the Malaysian Physiotherapy
Association (MPA) and of the
World Confederation for Physical
Therapy (WCPT). She has been in
the industry since 1998.
12
Events
FESTIVITY:
THE GOAT
STRIDES IN
WITH POMP AND
CEREMONY
A burst of traditional red decorations lent a festive air at all NASAM clubs in mid-February.
During rehab sessions in the weeks before the auspicious day, members painstakingly crafted
decorative trimmings, which then graced rooms and hallways. On selected dates, after CNY,
Clubs hosted sumptuous lunches for members, caregivers and friends. Dressed in red finery,
everyone joined the revelry and tossed yee sang for good health and prosperity.
Our heartfelt Thank You to all sponsors who made the celebration possible at the various Clubs.
NASAM wishes you a healthy and prosperous year!
NASAM PJ
The God of Prosperity ushered in the
spirit of Chinese New Year, followed
closely behind by members of the Sheng
Wai Lion Dance troop. The young, agile
and energetic adults put on a spectacular
lion dance display that members found
engaging. After their show they sportingly
posed for the cameras, and before leaving
for their next venue they shared their
goodwill by donating their ang pow
collection to NASAM – for which
NASAM is very thankful. A big thank you
also to Sin Chua Kee restaurant, off Old
Klang Road, for generously sponsoring
the yee sang.
NASAM Kuantan
NASAM Johor
13
Spotlight - Other Events
NASAM PJ - FEBRUARY 12, 2015
A Morning With Nurses…
A group of post-rehab nurses from Kuala Pilah Nursing
College, led by lecturer Puan Norlina, observed club
members going through their exercise regime and also
participated in various activities. The group of 15 postrehab nurses gained a better perspective of NASAM’s
services and stroke rehabilitation programme during a
presentation by Therapist-In-Charge, Devi Silvadorai.
She also briefed them about caring and how to position
stroke survivors in bed.
…And Burger Making
Afternoon tea offered some respite
from routine therapy – members
exercised as they buttered buns, cut
fillings such as onions, tomatoes,
cucumbers, to create their own
Ramly burgers. After their hard work
they were more than happy to savour
their creations.
A Musical Interlude - MPO Brings A Harp
Members at NASAM PJ were treated to a musical journey when harpist Tan Keng Hong, of the Malaysian
Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), visited with his “golden” harp. Following the opening number, a harp concerto
by George Handel, Keng Hong continued to enthral his audience with music from selected countries around
the world. Some popular numbers included Here Comes The Sun by the Beatles and Sheila Majid’s Lagenda.
Members also had an opportunity to get a feel of the Italian-made harp that weighed about 50 kg and cost over
RM100,000.
14
Spotlight - Other Regional Events
NASAM Perak…
… Participated in a health
awareness event called “Young at
Heart”, organised by Urban Health
magazine at KPJ hospital in Ipoh.
During the interactive session some
members shared their journey of
recovery from stroke.
NASAM Johor...
… organized a three-day trip to
Penang. Members and friends took
in famous sights such as the Snake
Temple and Reclining Buddha
and Kek Lok Si Temples, Fort
Cornwalis, the state museum and
street art at Armenian Street.
NASAM Kuantan...
… was given complimentary use of
Hyatt Regency Resort’s poolside.
During the fun outing, members
celebrated the 79th birthday of Lim
Hong Kwang.
15
Spotlight - Volunteer
YOUNG & CARING
Pint-sized Jean Ng Ai Deen stands tall on the exercise floor at NASAM PJ. With
a quick smile she reaches out and helps a stroke survivor stretch a little further;
and as she connects with a gentle, firm touch, her charge gives a knowing look…
even attempts to try a little harder. This 19-year old volunteer, who has been with
NASAM since June 2014, is clearly a favourite among the Club members, most of
whom regard her as a grand-daughter.
Jean guiding a stroke survivor doing rehab.
Jean a high achiever, scored 9As in her SPM, before pursuing her college education.
Academia aside, Jean is a Taekwondo exponent, holding a black belt; she also enjoys playing the piano. Towards
the end of February 2015 she began her medical studies at IMU University in Bukit Jalil. Before her departure, she
spoke to Stroke news
about her decision to volunteer at NASAM, her first day, and lessons learned as she
celebrated life with stroke survivors:
“I became a volunteer because I wanted to contribute to
society. I have always admired volunteers who selflessly
help others. They are my heroes. They make the world a
better place. I wish more young people would volunteer
and realise that there are many invaluable experiences to be
gained. You won’t know until you try it. We, the young, are
the key to the future. While we may be driven by ambition,
success and wealth, we must also realise that money is not
everything. It does not matter how much time you can give.
Whatever you give goes a long way.
“I chose NASAM because stroke is becoming so common,
not only among Malaysians but also around the world. I
wanted to know more about this disease, what causes it and
how to care for a stroke survivor. Plus my late grandfather
had a stroke too, so it gave me more reason to help out at An endearing moment between Volunteer Jean and
NASAM.
Chan Woon Yong
“On my first day I was a nervous wreck. I had not done
any volunteering work before. I worried and was crippled
with fear that someone might fall when under my care. But
everyone at NASAM was kind to me, guided me and made
me feel comfortable.
“Initially, I was shocked to see so many survivors attending
rehabilitation. Soon I got into a routine, learned more about
stroke and how to care for survivors. My daily schedule at
NASAM began at 9am and finished at 1pm. I walked with
survivors, helped them with their exercises, chatted and
listened to their worries and tried to find solutions to their
problems. Most of them love it when young people take the
time and effort to be with them. Sometimes, I even cheer
them up with jokes when they are feeling low.
“Volunteering at NASAM has certainly helped me. I used to
be a shy person, unable to interact much with others. My time
at NASAM has helped improve my communication skills and
made me a more confident person.
“The lessons I take away with me revolve around belief,
determination and being positive. I have seen these qualities
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in the stroke survivors who are able to recover fast because
they believe they can, they continue to think positive and are
determined to move on with their lives. I also learned about
remaining calm when faced with a challenge, and to be more
observant about life around me.
NASAM welcomes volunteers. If you have time to spare,
are in good health, friendly, compassionate and love
interacting with people or have some special skills, join
our team. Call any of our Clubs for a chat. All we need
from you is commitment and a strong desire to help others!
NASAM wishes Jean Ng the very best as she
embarks on her next journey. Thank you for sharing
your time with us.
Spotlight - Caregivers
A CARER’S JOURNEY
The oft-heard adage at NASAM is ‘stroke strikes not one member but the entire family’. Families go through
trying times as they attempt to cope with many unknown factors that come hurtling towards them at a frightening
pace. Some families fall apart, others persevere and manage to become more united. After the initial shock and
setback, one person in the family usually assumes the role of caregiving – a role that is fraught with challenges.
Stroke news
caught up with two caregivers whose lives have not been the same since their spouses suffered
a stroke.
You can almost hear the fear and near hysteria in Lily
Peris’ voice as she recalls the early days when her husband
of 41 years, Richard Yeong, suffered a stroke: “I felt very
terrible…I felt like committing suicide. I didn’t know a thing
about stroke.”
Richard was alone at home on July 12, 2010 when he had the
stroke. It affected his spine (he couldn’t walk or sit), speech
and the right side of his face. After 11 days in hospital he was
discharged. He was on a feeding tube, and his condition had
not changed much – he still could not walk, sit or speak well.
Lily, who was working in a school canteen from 5am to 6pm
on weekdays, gave up her job on the day Richard was admitted
into hospital. However, she was fearful of taking Richard
home and caring for him. She was also alone at home, as her
only child, a son was living away. Fear and ignorance forced
her to put her husband in a nursing home.
Richard began his rehab programme at NASAM PJ on
August 8, 2010, about a week after he was discharged from
hospital. Every day she would take Richard from the home to
NASAM for therapy.
Four months later an incident in the home saw Richard
struggling for his life in hospital. Not wanting to risk another
episode she decided to move him back to their home and be
a full-time caregiver.
“It was a very stressful time,” recalls Lily. “He would fall,
he would cry, get angry, mess himself up… I was alone
struggling to cope with him. I could not afford to get any help.
If he fell, I had to call for help and sometimes struggled for
about an hour trying to get him up from the floor. It was very
hard. When you are alone and caregiving you don’t sleep or
eat properly… you panic because you are not sure how to
manage, you are angry and unhappy because you don’t have
a life anymore. Your entire focus is on giving care.”
But Lily remained stoic. Her love for her husband kept her
going. She also found solace in religion. “I prayed to God for
strength,” she kept repeating.
In time Lily learned more about caregiving and got a better
grip on how to cope.
Caregiver Lily Peris has been caring for her husband Richard Yeong
for 5 years.
“I received help and support at NASAM, not only on matters
related to better managing Richard but also with other issues
such as registering him as an OKU* and receiving government
aid,” she said. “Even now, so many years later, I look forward
to my daily trips to meet my extended family with whom I
exchange and share joys and sorrows.
“When I first started bringing Richard here everyone
encouraged me to keep moving ahead. We talked about
everything in our lives, especially what we went through
during those initial days and months following the stroke. I
learned so much and gained confidence to keep living.”
Today Lily is so thankful that she has taken it upon herself
to spread the good word about NASAM, and how to apply
for an OKU status. She also reaches out to new arrivals at
NASAM as well as families with a stroke survivor that she
meets at other places.
Now five years on Richard, though still weak on his right
side, is able to walk short distances under supervision with
a walking aid and is improving in speech. These days when
he takes to resting at home Lily is able to get a bit of a break
and even go out for a couple of hours. Looking back, she is
thankful that her health withstood the trials of those early
days.
Her final words to caregivers is:
“Don’t be angry all the time!”
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Kamalluddin
Bin
Omar’s job constantly
took him away from home.
His wife Alimaton Sadiah
Bte Mahmood, a civil
servant, managed their
household and raised their
son and daughter. Life was
good. The children grew
up, b e c a m e successful
professionals, got married
and bore grandchildren.
While Kamalluddin kept
up with the demands of
Caregiver Kamalluddin Bin Omar.
being a railway contractor,
his wife retired from civil
service. She kept herself physically active – exercising
and walking regularly in a Park. But despite her efforts her
health was not the best; she was on medication for diabetes,
cholesterol and hypertension. And in 2011, she started
finding it difficult to keep her balance and relied on a cane
when walking.
In their golden years the couple chose to live with their
daughter and her family in Puchong, Selangor. When
time permitted they indulged in their favourite past time,
travelling. By then Kamalluddin had also developed a
penchant for golf. An avid golfer, he kept a regular golfing
schedule, developing a competitive handicap of below 20.
up.I cannot expect our children to take on the role, they have
their own lives. They help when they can. I simply had to do
it… if I don’t who else will?”
His day revolves completely around her needs – everything
from the call of nature and bathing to dressing, feeding and
daily therapy at NASAM. In the evenings, sometimes, he
is able to “steal” away to the mosque while his daughter, a
mother of young children, minds Alimaton. His golf is nonexistent these days, and as most of his friends were from the
golfing fraternity he has also lost communication with them.
“She is totally dependent on me for all her needs,” he adds.
“She is trying very hard and is improving. For the first two
years at NASAM she was confined to the wheelchair during
her therapy sessions. Since July 2014, she walks with an aid,
under supervision, for a short distance. I just wish for her to
recover fully soon as there are still so many things for her to
do, like putting to good use her law degree.”
Although his life seems to have taken a backseat,
Kamalluddin remains optimistic. “Stroke is not the end of
everything. I see her as my wife, not a stroke patient. Our
lives have changed now, but not our love.”
In early 2011, he returned from Sabah, ready to indulge
in his wife and family, golf and travel. He was calling it a
day, having completed his final project for his employers.
However, his good intentions were short-lived. In June,
barely four months after his return, he was relaxing at home
with his wife, when she was crippled by a stroke. When
it happened she was in the bathroom and had to crawl to
the door to call out to Kamalluddin for help. Alimaton was Kamalluddin giving Alimaton a helping hand during therapy at NASAM.
taken to hospital where it was confirmed she had suffered a
stroke that affected mobility on her right side.
From that fateful day Kamalluddin’s life has never been the
same. He became a fulltime carer, a commitment he explains
as follows: “I had to adjust to the circumstances. All our
lives she has been taking care of everything. From the time
our children were babies, she single-handedly brought them
*Kad OKU is a card issued to Malaysian citizens who have long-term disability that creates challenges or
obstacles for them when participating fully within society. There are seven categories, namely hearing, vision,
speech, physical, learning, mental and multiple disabilities. The OKU applications, registration and approval
are handled for free by the Department of Social Welfare. However, all applications have to be verified by a
certified medical officer.
Applications can be made online at http://spmoku.jkm.gov.my/smoku.
For more information, please log on to www.jkm.gov.my
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NASAM Needs Your Help
We are a non-profit organisation depending solely on public goodwill and generosity to give LIFE to stroke survivors.
Many of those who come to NASAM are not able to afford post-stroke rehabilitation which is critical to every survivor’s
recovery. Partner us and share a journey of a second chance.
How You
Can Help
By donating
(one-off or monthly contributions)
By sponsoring a therapist
or a stroke centre
By volunteering
✂
Donation Form
DONOR PARTICULARS (PLEASE USE CAPITAL LETTERS)
ONLINE DONATIONS
Name/Company :
You can also donate through our website at
www.nasam.org
I.C. No. :
Address :
City : HP : Home :
State : Postcode :
Office :
Fax :
Email :
OR
Donations can be made directly to our account
(Maybank 5122 3152 0534). Please fax/scan
your bank-in-slip to 03-7931 0087 or email to
[email protected].
Please provide your name as per your MyKad so
that tax exempt receipts can be issued.
National Stroke Association of Malaysia | No. 12, Jalan Bukit Menteri Selatan (7/2), 46050 Petaling Jaya.
Tel: +603 7956 1876 | Fax: +603 7931 0087 | Email: [email protected] | Website: www.nasam.org
✂
Stroke rehabilitation is a crucial part of stroke
recovery. NASAM’s stroke rehabilitation
programme focuses on the physical, emotional
and social wellbeing of stroke survivors
and offers physiotherapy, speech therapy,
recreational activities, alternative therapy and
counselling services. Contact your nearest
NASAM Centre for more details.
AGAINST THE WIND
THE SPIRIT OF NASAM
AS SEEN THROUGH THE LIVES
OF STROKE SURVIVORS
A copy of this documentary is available on DVD
for a donation of RM30. NASAM also welcomes
requests for corporate screenings.
Please contact Nancy Yap at 03-7956 1876
or email [email protected] for more details.