South Geelong man David Rowell recovers from three strokes

After experiencing a headache and numbness, David Rowell, 84, discovered the critical role of personalised stroke treatment when he presented at Geelong Hospital following his first stroke in early May.

Geelong’s David Rowell suffered a stroke in March but is now able to walk his dogs Winsome and Augustus as part of his therapy. Picture: Mark Wilson

When David Rowell presented to Geelong hospital with a headache and numbness on his left side, he learned the importance of exceptional and individualised stroke care.

The 84-year-old was at home when he started experiencing his first stroke symptoms in early May.

He called an ambulance and was taken to Geelong hospital where he was diagnosed with a stroke.

Mr Rowell suffered a second stroke and was transferred to the McKellar Centre to begin rehabilitation that focused on reintroducing strength to his body.

“They were incredibly thorough and very qualified, it was extremely busy at the centre, but

they were excellent,” Mr Rowell said.

“I had occupational therapists, physiotherapists and doctors come around routinely.”

Earlier this month, the day before he was due to be discharged and sent home, Mr Rowell suffered a third stroke.

Geelong’s David Rowell suffered a stroke in March but is now able to walk his dogs Winsome and Augustus as part of his therapy. Picture: Mark Wilson

Mr Rowell said he was forced to quit his job as traffic controller, but remained an active pensioner thanks to care he received from Barwon Health staff.

“With a stroke, you lose neuron connections, so the rehabilitation focuses on reconnecting

the neurons with physical work from occupational therapists,” he said.

“Part of my exercise is walking, I walk my dogs, or I take a walk to South Geelong station as

the stairs are a challenge for me”.

Geelong hospital was recently granted stroke unit certification from the Australian Stroke Coalition.

The certification program recognises 25 hospitals across Australia that consistently meet a strict set of criteria when treating stroke patients.

Australian and New Zealand Stroke Organisation president Professor Tim Kleinig said specific stroke care was critical to patient recovery.

“Quality stroke unit care is critical, and all Australians deserve nothing less,” Prof Kleinig said.

“We must ensure everyone unfortunate enough to have a stroke has the best possible chance, not only of survival, but also a good post-stroke recovery.”

Mr Rowell said he could not speak highly enough of the care he received and felt lucky to have had his stroke in Geelong.

“I felt the staff worked to find the right treatment for me, and it wasn’t a one size fits all approach,” he said.

Mr Rowell is now recovering at his South Geelong home and hopes to begin volunteering in the community when he returns to his normal self.

Originally published as South Geelong man David Rowell recovers from three strokes