Finding Strength in Recovery: May is Stroke Awareness Month

Image source: The Stroke Association

Every year in May, the UK comes together to mark Stroke Awareness Month. It is a time to shine a light on a condition that changes a life every five minutes in the UK. Whether you are a survivor, a carer, or someone looking to understand the risks, this month is about two things: Awareness and Action.

For 2026, the Stroke Association is continuing its vital "Make May Purple" campaign. The goal is simple but profound: to ensure that every stroke survivor has the support they need to find their "new normal."

Why Awareness Matters: The FAST Test

A stroke is a medical emergency. When the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, brain cells begin to die. Speed is everything. The faster you act, the more of the person you can save.

The Stroke Association urges everyone to remember the FAST test:

• Face: Has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?

• Arms: Can they raise both arms and keep them there?

• Speech: Is their speech slurred or garbled?

• Time: It’s time to call 999 if you see any one of these signs.

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The Journey Beyond the Hospital

While the immediate medical response is critical, the journey doesn't end when a patient leaves the hospital. In fact, for many, that is where the real challenge begins. A stroke can affect everything from how you walk and speak to how you feel and think.

This is where specialised, community-based rehabilitation becomes a lifeline.

Specialised Support: The Neuro Therapy Network

For those living with the long-term effects of a stroke, finding local, accessible, and expert care is essential. The Neuro Therapy Network represents a nationwide web of independent therapy centres designed to bridge the gap between clinical treatment and long-term wellbeing.

These centres offer a range of therapies that focus on neuro-rehabilitation, helping survivors regain independence and improve their quality of life.

Key Therapies Available:

• Physiotherapy: Specialised neuro-physio helps in retraining the brain and body to move again, improving balance and muscle strength.

• Oxygen Therapy: Many centres in the network offer Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), which is used by some survivors to help reduce inflammation and support the brain’s natural healing processes.

• Counselling and Peer Support: The emotional impact of a stroke is often "invisible." Connecting with others who understand the journey is just as important as physical exercise.

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How You Can Get Involved This May

1. Make May Purple: Wear purple, bake purple treats, or light up your building purple to start conversations.

2. Know Your Risk: High blood pressure is the single biggest risk factor for stroke. Use this month as a reminder to get yours checked.

3. Support Local Centres: Many centres within the Neuro Therapy Network are independent charities.

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Check our centre finder to see how you can support or access services near you.

Stroke recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. This May, let’s make sure no one has to run it alone.