A former Wigtown Primary School head teacher has been hailed for his dedication as a Stroke Association volunteer.
Stewart Anderson, who now lives in Newton Stewart, has been an ambassador for the charity for nine years.
A highly-regarded and inspirational teacher, Stewart had a stroke 12 years ago which brought about his premature retirement.
Now, following Volunteers’ Week, he and other Stroke Association helpers have received special thanks for their tireless work over the years.
He said: “I was given so much help when I was recovering from my stroke, I wanted to give something back.
“I had time on my hands, believed passionately in the cause and wanted to spread the message that strokes are preventable and that with support you can recover from a stroke.”
Stewart, 70, started as a know your blood pressure volunteer to raise awareness of stroke prevention and has carried out numerous blood pressure testing events in his local community.
He organised fundraisers and, as an ambassador, raises awareness of stroke through talks at meetings.
Recently he also signed up as a Lived Experience, Here For You volunteer – a telephone befriending service for people who may be dealing with loneliness and isolation following their stroke.
Speaking about his own stroke experience, Stewart said: “I felt largely okay before the event but suddenly everything changed in an instant.
“I lost all sensation on the right side of my body and couldn’t speak at all. I had no idea what was happening to me.
“Thankfully, my osteopath who I was with at the time, recognised my symptoms, and knew I was having a stroke.
“He dialled 999, and if it hadn’t been for his speedy action, and the speedy response and care of the paramedics, I may not have been able to receive a life-saving drug that has to be administered within three and a half hours of symptoms starting.
“I have been left with some very slight disability but have generally made a remarkable recovery.”
Stroke Association chief executive Juliet Bouverie paid tribute the dedicated service of Stewart and his fellow volunteers.
She said: “To all our volunteers, you make a huge difference to thousands of stroke survivors and their families.
“Thank you for giving hope to thousands of stroke survivors and their carers and supporting them with their recoveries. You are amazing.”
