‘Picture of vitality’: 26yo Aussie woman’s life changed forever after sudden stroke

A young Aussie woman has been left paralysed from the neck down after suffering a freak medical episode on a night out.

A young Australian woman has been left paralysed from the neck down after suffering a freak medical episode on a night out with friends.

NSW woman Amelia Keam was at a live gig in Newcastle in March when she suddenly started feeling dizzy, then collapsed as she tried to leave.

Ms Keam went into cardiac arrest, with two bystanders - trained first responders from the Australian Defence Force - performing CPR until paramedics arrived.

She was rushed to John Hunter Hospital and placed in an induced coma.

The 26-year-old had suffered a stroke that disrupted the blood flow to the connection between her brainstem and spinal cord, leaving her paralysed from the neck down and needing a ventilator to breathe.

Sharing her friend’s story in a fundraiser set up to help pay for Ms Keam’s extensive treatment and rehabilitation, Chloe Gillette said the psychology student and mental health worker was fully conscious and aware of her situation and could communicate through eye movements.

Amelia Keam, 26, suffered a stroke at a gig in Newcastle in March, and is now paralysed from the neck down. Picture: Supplied

She was put in an induced coma. Picture: Supplied

“Amelia suffered a stroke that disrupted the blood flow to the connection between her brain stem and spinal cord, which controls motor reflexes,” Ms Gillette said of her friend.

“She is unable to produce any sound because a ventilator is breathing for her.”

“While her condition is unique, it is most similarly described as locked-in syndrome, with some nuances.”

“Amelia’s diagnosis is one of the most challenging anyone can face.”

The doctors are saying early intervention for spinal rehabilitation is “critical” and the fundraiser will help pay for spinal and neurology specialists, physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, social workers, and case managers.

“We are reaching out to you today to ask for your support as Amelia navigates this extremely difficult chapter in her life,” Ms Gillette said.

Amelia Keam’s friend says she ‘led an active lifestyle, prioritising exercise, eating well … and was a picture of vitality’. Picture: Supplied

“She is facing mounting medical expenses, including treatments, therapies, and daily living costs, which are adding up quickly.”

The fundraiser has garnered more than $52,000 since April 3.

Ms Gillette said her friend had no prior health issues, and that any financial contributions would allow Ms Keam and her family to focus on what was most important - her healing.

“Amelia led an active lifestyle, prioritising exercise, eating well, and spending time outdoors.

“She worked in mental health and studied psychology, driven by a deep passion for helping others. Up until now, she had no prior health issues and was a picture of vitality.

“She is facing mounting medical expenses, including treatments, therapies, and daily living costs, which are adding up quickly.

“Amelia’s road to recovery may be long, but with your help, we remain hopeful.”