Ramon Montecillo has come to accept his "new normal."
After suffering a stroke two years ago at the age of 55, he's come to believe that it was a personal blessing.
While there were strong challenges to recover physically and emotionally, the Delta resident has now focused on a new life purpose: giving back.
"Volunteering drives me onwards," he says.
"Spiritual awareness enhances hope. Family and friends provide stability. There is life after a stroke."
Montecillo is turning that energy directly to helping other stroke victims as a volunteer facilitator for the Heart and Stroke Foundation's new Living with Stroke program.
The program is designed to help stroke survivors and their families improve their quality of life, cope with challenges and connect with others.
It's a tool for help and hope.
Lead by volunteer facilitators and provided free in B.C. communities, the program is comprised of eight weekly, two-hour sessions.
Weekly topics include: impact of stroke, physical changes and keeping active; dealing with emotions and relationships; reducing future risk and nutrition.
All stroke survivors and a family member are welcome to join. The next Living With Stroke program will run from March 3 to April 14. It will be offered Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. at Sungod Recreation Centre in North Delta.
To register, call 1-888-473-4636.
For more information on stroke resources and the program, visit www.heartandstroke.bc.ca/livingwithstroke.
