Listen: World Stroke Day

A 34-year-old previously fit and healthy woman who suffered a stroke ten months ago has created an Instagram page for her rehab food journey as she seeks to raise awareness of young stroke survivors this World Stroke Day (Tues. Oct 29).

Melissa Clayton, who had no underlying health problems, had just finished work at the PR agency where she works in central London in January when she suffered a seizure and ischaemic stroke, or blood clot at the back of the brain – for no other reason than, as she describes it, ‘bad luck’.

And as she continues her recovery, having first been fed through a tube for four months, she says she wants to give advice to other young stroke survivors on staying positive – as she believes her attitude has helped her rehabilitation.

As part of her recovery journey, Melissa says she spent weeks swimming in fresh water from the hills around Matlock, Derbyshire, which has helped her improve her movement.

Aston spoke to young stroke survivor Melissa Clayton.