AN IRISH Heart Foundation stroke support group has opened a memorial garden in Whitehall for stroke survivors and the families of those who died from a stroke.
Members of the Whitehall Stroke Support Group, which is part of the Irish Heart Foundation’s Volunteer Stroke Scheme, created the memorial garden after the death of one of the group members.
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Paul McAuliffe, officially opened the garden.
“I’m proud to open this memorial garden for stroke survivors today,” he said.
“It is always important to take time and remember those who have helped us and touched our lives in some way. I hope this garden offers people a place to relax and enjoy the memories of their friends and family members affected by stroke.
“There is a strong sense of community and support among the groups gathered here today and together you have created a wonderful place and I’m honoured to open it for you.”
A plaque has been placed in the garden to remember stroke survivors who have passed. It reads:
‘Though absent you are always near, still loved, still missed, still very dear. Forever remembered by your fellow stroke survivors.’
The Whitehall Stroke Support Group is one of 20 stroke support groups that the Irish Heart Foundation organises around the country.
Helena Heffernan, Whitehall Stroke Group Coordinator, hopes the garden will help all members of the support group community.
“The idea for the garden came after the loss of members and friends,” she said.
“We hope it will help people affected by stroke and their families to know that they will always be part of the stroke support group community.
“The garden will be a relaxing place where they can remember family and friends who are no longer here with us. We would like to thank the 44th Whitehall Scout Group for their support in providing us with a meeting place for the group and this garden.”
Bridie Lyons, Volunteer Stroke Scheme Coordinator, said stroke support groups are important to survivors as well as their carers and families.
“Having survived a stroke most people lose their confidence, they feel isolated and vulnerable and have difficulty coming to terms with what has happened,” she said.
“The stroke support group becomes a stepping stone for them to help them to renew their interest in previous activities or to move on with confidence to different ones.
“Carers and family members receive emotional support and can avail of counselling offered. The main aim of the support groups is to encourage the survivors to reach a maximum level of function and live the best life possible within the limits imposed by the stroke.”
The new memorial garden is located at 44 Whitehall Scout Group, Larkhill Road and is open to the community.