Darren Pryce suffered a devastating stroke in September 2022 that left him unable to speak or stand. Now, more than three years on and 90% recovered, the 56-year-old is helping train staff at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (DBTH).
The stroke affected the left side of his brain and caused severe swallowing difficulties, speech problems, and balance issues. Darren spent nine days unable to eat or drink whilst undergoing intensive physiotherapy and speech therapy. He was one of the first people in the UK to receive AMP Care treatment, a therapy using low-level electrical stimulation to rebuild swallowing function after stroke.
After his initial recovery at Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Darren continued rehabilitation at Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, receiving 39 sessions of specialist treatment alongside physiotherapy and psychological support. He has since returned to full-time work, travelling, and running again.
Now Darren takes part in clinical training sessions at DBTH, helping healthcare professionals understand the emotional impact of stroke and anxiety during recovery. He credits his remarkable progress to specialist NHS care, his own determination, and family support. His experience shows the importance of both physical rehabilitation and psychological support in stroke recovery.