Jo Bayliss

29 years ago, just shy of my 26th birthday, I suffered a stroke, leaving me unconscious in hospital for three days.

My life had changed in an instant.

At the time, life was busy. My husband and I were raising two young boys, only three and 18 months old. I was working full-time and playing netball several times a week. As if the situation wasn’t challenging enough, our eldest had come down with chicken pox the day before, and our youngest woke up with chicken pox on the very day I was fighting for my life.

In the critical hours following the stroke, I was transferred between regional hospitals twice and waited about eight hours for doctors to determine I had suffered a stroke. 

In the days that followed, we learned the effects the stroke had on me. Taking away abilities most people take for granted - over months of rehabilitation I had to learn to walk, talk and even eat again. 

I remember everything from those initial minutes to the months-long recovery journey afterwards. My recovery occurred in an Aged Care Facility, due to lack of beds available, which at 26 years old was confronting to be surrounded by the aging residents. 

Supported by the determination and unwavering support of my family, I was able to stay focused on my rehabilitation. What mattered most to me in those days was getting better and returning to my family. Through it all, my boys and husband were the strength I needed, together they became my greatest motivation.

I am taking part in Strides4Strokes as a way of giving back to those who are currently facing their own stroke journey.

The vital funds raised for the Stroke Foundation will make it possible for:

As I get my strides in this September, I will look back on the life I have had since my stroke. Although my recovery was sparred with challenges - lasting effects of the stroke, not being able to work for five years and time away from my family. The experience taught me resilience, determination and the power of never losing sight of what matters most.

Thank you for supporting me and this cause which means so much to me and my family.