FROM ONE STEP TO THE MATTERHORN IN TWO YEARS

20/9/26

Many people have asked me about my stroke. Because I have recovered so well, some assume it must have been mild.

What they may not realise is that I suffered a serious and potentially fatal bilateral cerebellar stroke close to my brainstem and medulla.

For almost a week, the world seemed to spin continuously. I experienced severe nausea and vomiting, immense weakness and a frightening sense of being physically and mentally disjointed.

Once I was stable enough, what did I do to begin rebuilding my life?

How did my physiotherapist’s words affirm what I already believed about regenerative biology and neuroplasticity—the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt and relearn?

How did I push through exhaustion, fear and uncertainty to work towards becoming as normal as possible during an important period of recovery—knowing that although healing can continue for years, the early months may offer a particularly valuable window for rehabilitation?

And how did I progress from fearing that I might never walk normally again, to taking my first steps with my physiotherapist—and, two years later, travelling up a mountain in Switzerland to stand before the Matterhorn?

From one uncertain step to the Matterhorn—this is my journey of recovery, perseverance, knowledge and faith.

Read the full article to discover how I found my way back.