As a child, I always dreamed of doing the role I’m in today. It was something I hoped for, but after my brain operation, negligence, stroke, that dream felt like it had been taken away. I was told I was told I would never speak or walk again, and in those moments I couldn’t imagine what my future would look like. Recovery hasn’t been easy. It has been filled with challenges, setbacks and moments where I questioned whether I’d ever achieve the life I had once imagined. But I kept going, one small step at a time.
A year ago, I began volunteering in my dream role. Walking through those doors for the first time was a moment I’ll never forget. I wasn’t just volunteering, I was proving to myself that the impossible wasn’t impossible after all.
Now, just one year later, I have been voted Volunteer of the Year 2026. I still find it hard to believe.
This award means far more than a title. It represents resilience, determination and hope. It reminds me that no matter how difficult life becomes, our dreams don’t have to end. Sometimes they simply take a different path to become reality.
If you’re facing one of the hardest chapters of your life right now, don’t give up. Keep believing in yourself, even when others can’t see what you are capable of. The road may be longer than you ever expected, but incredible things can still happen.
I never thought I would be where I am today, yet here I am, living the dream I had as a child.
Dreams really do come true, even after the worst happens. Sometimes, they become even more meaningful because of everything it took to get there.
Brilliant, have a tipple or whatever takes your fancy on my behalf. You deserve it, I am sure you have strived to achieve the best result you can and it has paid off.
I am going to give the stroke association a big shout out when I collect my award in September for their Support and guidance on my journey, of course I’ve got to go to a posh dinner I’ll do a cheers for you
Thank you so much for sharing your inspirational story, you must be so proud. Your story will be so inspiring for anyone new to this community and just beginning their road to recovery.
Congratulations on receiving your award and for being able to carry out your dream job against all the odds
Huge congratulations. That’s absolutely amazing & proof that dreams really can be achieved despite adversity.
I know when I won an award at work earlier this year it meant so much more than just getting the certificate. It proved that I could still do it despite my stroke.
You should be very proud & enjoy every moment of the posh dinner. Look forward to hearing all about it.
You’re absolutely right, it wasn’t just about the award. It was everything it represented after everything that’s happened. Hearing that from someone who’s had to overcome so much themselves makes it even more special.
Congratulations again on your own award too. That’s such an incredible achievement, and a real testament to your determination after your stroke. I hope you continue to go from strength to strength.
I’ll definitely enjoy the posh dinner and will let you know all about it afterwards. Knowing me, I’ll probably trip over when I go up to collect it in front of all the Police officers and Sargents! Thank you again for your lovely message. x
Sue, thank you so much for your beautiful message. It genuinely brought a tear to my eye.
There were so many times after my stroke (caused by the Nhs) that I never thought I’d be able to work again, let alone return to the role I’d always dreamed of. Recovery has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to face, but it’s also taught me never to underestimate what determination, patience and hope can achieve.
When have to go and collect the award will be an incredibly emotional moment. It will be a reminder of just how far I’ve come and that, despite everything, I haven’t let my stroke define who I am or what I’m capable of.
If my story gives even one person who is at the beginning of their recovery a little hope that things can get better, then sharing it has been worthwhile. Recovery isn’t always quick or straightforward, but every small step really does matter.
Thank you again for taking the time to write such a thoughtful message. Your kindness and encouragement mean more than you know.
I’ll do a cheers for you 
Thank you again for your lovely message.