Mary's Story

'Two and a half years ago I had a stroke. Prior to my stroke I was a hairdresser. I used to travel to Sydney to see my ex-partner. I used to enjoy going into the city. I love animals, mostly cats and dogs.

The impact is that it makes me feel tired and frustrated sometimes.

I love going out to the Stroke Centre where I am part of the community. I like visiting Doncaster shopping centre on the bus with my support workers and my friend Rita. I love going for coffee. I talk to my friends and my family about how I am feeling. My NDIS therapy team helps me to cope and build my strength. I like to laugh about life.

Mary's art showcasing at BrainLink's art show

I want to help encourage other people who have had a stroke. My advice to anyone is my faith has helped me through this, and my family and friends. I would like to say, just to look after yourself, just go out and do what makes you happy. It’s going to be ok; you will get through it. I went through it, and they will get through it too.

The painting I am showcasing in the art show is about people who were close to me who have passed on.'