Left to right - Tom Laurie, Brian Raine, Gillian Marsh and President Colin Moreland.

Have you ever had a door slammed in your face so hard that the door never opens again? This is what a stroke can feel like. Rotarian Brian Raine shared his experience with the Club members in a very personal and intimate presentation that might never have happened if it hadn’t been for the wonderful support.

Brian retired as headmaster of Queen Victoria School but, being the active person we know, was able to continue to use his knowledge, experience  and communication skills.  In many ways, Brian became involved with the chairmanship and guidance roles in more groups than many of us could hope to manage.  So, imagine the result, the effect and sheer horror of an aphasic stroke. That door slammed shut for Brian.

It was nice to share in Brian’s tribute to those who had helped like the people who reacted so FAST to his predicament that he was taken to hospital in good time. Then long months of recovery that his wife, Jean, helped with so patiently. Reading out loud words at first, then headlines from the newspaper  until he could manage full paragraphs.  His long-time friend, Robert, who encouraged conversation allowing the time for Brian to respond. And his friends, Eddie and Lorna, who gave him the confidence to enter social life again.

Brian explained how he still needs the additional support of medical staff and the Stroke Association. We can only applaud the effort that it has taken for Brian to talk to us so openly and then join with him in the salute to those who have helped selflessly in his recovery.