Ciara Murray

On October 29th, 2015 Ciara was at home alone, after having been signed off work for high blood pressure towards the end of her pregnancy. She unexpectedly suffered a massive on stoke and was left with a blood clot on her brain.

​

"I was so frightened. I just had to close my eyes and hope that the time would go quickly. When John came home at 6:30pm, I was so relieved."​

 

John rang for on ambulance and Ciara was blue-lighted to South West Acute Hospital in Enniskillen. Her baby wasn't affected by the stroke at all, but Ciara had a blood clot an her brain and had to be moved to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast. James was healthy and was able to leave the hospital a few days later. However, it took 10 more days before Ciara woke up and met her little boy, as she was placed in an induced come after the operation, until November 10th - her husband's birthday. She suffered a lot, having to stay in various hospitals far away from her family. Her husband John was determined to spend time as a family and made many long trips to Ciara.

 

In time, she joined a local stroke group to help her learn how to live with the effects of the stroke.

​

Ciara transformed personal adversity into a powerful force for good. She established a local hub providing vital support, therapy and a safe space for stroke survivors and their families. "We meet every Tuesday from 11-1 in the Cathedra Hall in Enniskillen. We do different activities designed to enhance and promote positive wellbeing, its a great space for people to connect and make friends."

 

The group has a community hub in Enniskillen which sells second hand goods, Ciara also offered game advice for any who is in the early stages of stroke recovery." Never give up hope, you will get your life back, you need to fight, be positive and work hard.