DCH stroke unit raises funds for rehabilitation equipment (From Thisisdorset)

DCH stroke unit raises funds for rehabilitation equipment

10:00am Wednesday 18th January 2012 in Latest By Catherine Bolado

WORKERS at a special unit for people suffering with strokes have raised money to buy essential equipment to help them rehabilitate.

Through a Christmas raffle and a sponsored walk, staff at Dorset County Hospital’s Stroke Unit have been able to buy a washing machine amongst other things for patients to be able to use and enjoy.

People who have suffered a stroke will be able to learn to use the washing machine again as part of rehabilitation.

This will help them to return to living at home.

Senior physiotherapy assistant at the stroke unit Jan Negus said: “So far we have brought a washing machine for £221, we are going to use it with the occupational therapy for the patients.”

She added: “My husband Bob wanted to raise money for the charity and see what it was being spent on.”

Mrs Negus said that the couple were both very passionate about helping those who have had strokes.

The group also brought a new nativity set for the ward and would be using some of the remaining money to buy DVDs of the Dorset area for the patients to watch.

Mrs Negus said: “I do an activity group with the patients and we do different activities including watching DVDs about the Jurassic Coast. A lot of the patients are from the surrounding area.

“So we might buy some DVDs of different areas like Blandford or Wareham.

“Anything we can do to help them get back towards their day to day lives.”

She added: “It’s such a good cause. I’m very passionate about helping people who have had strokes.

“It can happen to anybody, young or old.

“It’s not just one age group, the victims are getting younger and younger.

“If we can make their stay in hospital easier and help them to get better and work towards being discharged then that’s great.”

The stroke unit wanted to thank everyone who donated prizes for the raffle, particularly AD Brindley Fruit and Veg Shop at Littlemoor Shopping Centre for the hamper and the Potting Shed in Dorchester.

If you would like to help fundraise for the unit or would like to donate to them please contact Jan Negus on the Stroke Unit on 01305 255164.