Stroke Survivor Credits “Lifesaving” Procedure for Grandchild’s Birth

A man who experienced a stroke has stated that a “lifesaving” medical procedure ensures he will be present for the arrival of his grandchild. Kevin Freestone, a 57-year-old carpenter residing in West Hallam, Derbyshire, experienced a stroke upon waking in October. He was transported to Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC) for medical attention and is currently undergoing cognitive treatment provided by his support team. On Wednesday, Kevin assisted in the re-opening of the hospital’s interventional radiology (IR) theatres, commenting: “I wanted to be brought back because I didn’t want to miss my grandchild – they’re my future so it means absolutely everything to me.” Kevin, who now aims to resume his employment, further stated: “To shake somebody’s hand that’s saved your life or your livelihood is very emotional.” He elaborated: “Having the use of these hands is hugely important in my work. You have to be precise.” He also noted: “It means that I’m not a burden on my family and that I can still help people with what they want in their homes.” These newly opened theatres are set to enable Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) NHS Trust to broaden its mechanical thrombectomy service. This minimally-invasive procedure, which does not necessitate a surgical incision, involves extracting blood clots from arteries inside the brain for individuals who have experienced a stroke. Medical professionals employ thin tubes, which are observed using an X-ray scanner. Approximately 200 patients annually from across the East Midlands region receive treatment from this service in Nottingham. Sujit Nair, an interventional neuroradiologist at the hospital, commented: “It’s one of the most rewarding procedures that we do here.” He further explained: “The patients who come in for this procedure are disabled. They have serious stroke symptoms.” “When we do this procedure successfully, it’s quite rewarding to see that they have made near-complete recovery,” he concluded. NUH aims to provide this service around the clock starting in early 2025. Angela Bradbury experienced a stroke in August, just two days prior to her scheduled departure for a Mediterranean cruise. The 69-year-old, a resident of Overseal in Derbyshire, first sought medical attention at a hospital in Derby after her “voice went all gobbledegook-y.” Although her condition initially showed improvement, upon waking the following day, she discovered she had lost the use of an arm and a leg. Angela, who was transported by ambulance to the QMC, stated: “I knew everything that was happening but I couldn’t speak it.” She expressed: “It’s lifesaving. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, you have saved my life.” Angela reports a good recovery and also successfully received a refund for her cruise. Readers can follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding the BBC’s approach to external linking is available.