Stroke Club Closure Means Cash for Paul Sartori

Nicky Wheeler, Anne Cromwell and Chris Cox

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, the Pembrokeshire-based charity supporting people living in the final stages of a life-limiting illness, recently received a cheque following the closure of the first Stroke Club in Wales.

The Haverfordwest Stroke Club was formed over 40 years ago with just a few members; but with the improvements in recovery from stroke, the club has decided to close. One of the clauses in its articles states that in the event of the closure of the club the funds should be distributed within the local area. There are no other stroke clubs in Pembrokeshire and the club members felt that to donate the money to a stroke club farther afield would not be acceptable. A poll was taken of all the members for local charities to receive a donation, and Paul Sartori has been awarded funds of £3,500.

Chris Cox, one of the founding members of the club, said: “It is great that medical improvements are such that many stroke patients can now get back to work. When we started out we wanted to give our members activities and visits of interest. The club met and they were able to talk freely and enjoy spending time building friendships.”

Sandy Stark, registered nurse, said: “Thank you so much for this donation, every penny makes a difference and enables the nursing team to continue to support patients and their families at the end of life.”

She also included a quote from a grateful family: “I would recommend the Paul Sartori care team to anyone who needs them. I could not have wished for better when looking after my spouse. They are worth their weight in gold.”