Column: Dr Watkins On Stroke Recovery & More
[Column written by Dr Kimberley Watkins]
Today marks day one of the World Stroke Organization Conference that I am attending, a timely backdrop as we approach World Stroke Day on the 29th and our local park event on the 30th. I want to share key takeaways from the conference.
One central message echoing through the conference is the urgent need to challenge our assumptions about stroke recovery. For too long, we’ve clung to the idea that rehabilitation belongs within four walls and that progress plateaus after a certain point. This myth is not only outdated, but it’s also detrimental. In reality, recovery is a personal journey, unique for every individual, and research now shows that meaningful gains are possible not just months, but years after a stroke.
Neuroplasticity, the brain’s remarkable ability to rewire and adapt, is at the heart of this extended window for recovery. Just as learning a musical instrument, skill, or a new language can happen at any age, so too can the brain form new connections after stroke. Think of it this way: not every tree grows the same, but the branches still grow. The window for learning, and for stroke recovery, doesn’t truly close.
As healthcare professionals, our words carry weight. The way we talk about recovery shapes the mindset of survivors and caregivers. When we unintentionally suggest that improvements are unlikely or that recovery has ended, it can have lasting effects on hope and motivation. Recent research shows that meaningful improvement continues with an upward slope over many years. Imagine the progress possible if community-based rehabilitation were more accessible and extended beyond early recovery.
It’s time to broaden our definition of improvement. Too often, we measure success in stroke recovery by physical milestones recognised by insurance companies and funders. But what if meaningful change meant spending time with loved ones, returning to church, volunteering, or re-engaging in activities that bring purpose? These achievements matter deeply, even if they don’t show up in traditional outcome measures.
Instead of limiting support based on time since stroke, we must fund rehabilitation that meets individual needs, especially for those who require long-term, community-based support.
Ultimately, none of us is alone on this journey, and we need to make sure no one feels this way. Recovery can sometimes feel disjointed, but every step we take to connect survivors, families, and the wider community helps bridge those gaps. As we recognise World Stroke Day next week and gather for these important community events, let’s come together and commit to redefining what meaningful recovery looks like for everyone.
Please take the time to fill out the stroke survey which is still running until October 31st by clicking here.
And join us on October 29th and 30th to be part of this conversation and move forward.
On October 29th, the Bermuda Stroke Association [BSA] is hosting an event at the BUEI; details are available here. The following day, Evolution Healing Centre will host an educational park day featuring stroke awareness and the signs of stroke at Par-la-Ville Park from 2–4pm, joined by other healthcare professionals. We hope to see you at one or both events as we work to build a stronger, more connected community for stroke survivors and their families.
- Dr Kimberley Watkins
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