A STROKE AT 31
– Tam Hong Ching
During my stroke attack on July 31, 2018, I was robbed. There was no IC or any other personal particulars on me when I was rushed to the ICU of Hospital Sultanah Aminah (HSA) in Johor Bahru, where I remained unconscious for two days.
Because there was no ID on me, the hospital had no way of informing my family until I regained consciousness. Someone even posted a photo of me on social media, asking if anyone knew me or my family.
I was 31 at that time and was earning a living as a Grab driver.
I know what you are thinking: “Gosh! How can he have a stroke? He is so young.”
But let me share how I was living my life at that time. I was a Grab driver working 12 hours a day without a break. Due to the bad traffic jams in the morning, I decided to change my driving schedule from 4pm until 4am the next day. I was not a smoker, nor did I have a habit of drinking alcohol. I did, however, have high BP and was not following my doctor’s instructions diligently with regard to my medications.
One day, after five months of this hectic driving schedule, I felt a sudden, sharp pain across the right side of my head. I ignored it, hopped into my car and started work. The pain got worse but I didn’t stop to seek medical treatment. Instead, I put it down to it being one of my usual migraine attacks.
As the day continued the pain became really unbearable and disturbing. The customer who had booked me for this ride suggested I stop the car and have a rest. By then I could not concentrate on my driving, but thinking I would feel better soon I chose not to listen to him.
I assured him it was nothing serious because I could feel he was getting a little nervous. At that moment all I could think of was taking him safely to his destination, because he had already paid.
Suddenly my left arm that was holding the steering wheel dropped onto my lap. I could not lift it up. At this point I had no choice but to stop and allow the customer to find another driver.
I rested in the car for a few minutes. The pain in my head increased but I was more concerned for my customer because I could not deliver him to his destination. I decided to get out of the car to apologise to him. As I did, I felt my left leg go weak and so tried to limp towards him, but after a few steps I fell and lost consciousness on the road.
While I was unconscious, I lost my personal belongings, such as my IC, bag, mobile phone and cash. However, fortunately, somebody called the police and an ambulance. I was rushed to the ICU ward while the police took care of my car.
When I became conscious, I was able to give the nurses some personal information and they managed to contact my family. Everyone was relieved to hear I was alive but also worried because I was in hospital and had a stroke. I remained in hospital for eight days, during which time my family and friends rallied around me.
Two weeks after leaving the hospital, on August 23, I joined NASAM in Johor. I limped into the centre with my brother’s help, as my gait was very poor due to weakness and stiffness in my left limbs.
My physiotherapist Ashley did an assessment, tested my motor movements and also discussed my goals for rehabilitation and recovery. She also shared useful information about stroke and encouraged me to do exercises at home.
I began with one-on-one therapy, but after three sessions I was put into a group as it was felt that I needed more social support. Exercising daily with other stroke survivors was fun and motivational. My therapist also customised some exercises for me to practice on my own time. I learned to reduce the use of my dominant hand so that my weak, left one was used more for my daily activities.
Once I started doing the right exercises I noticed I was recovering better. After one month I could walk independently on the treadmill and with increased speeds. My balance also improved remarkably. Four months after my stroke I could use the skipping rope as I was able to coordinate my upper and lower limb movements.
Soon I regained my confidence. I also started to focus on re-training as a driver, under strict supervision, so I could return to work. Apart from driving skills I was tested on my reversing, turning and parking abilities. Only after weeks of dedicated practise was I allowed to drive independently.
I resumed my job as a Grab driver in September 2018. Initially, I started by working shorter hours, about three to five hours a day, and only in the mornings. These days my shifts are longer, but I make sure I have ample rest. After work, I check out interesting places to indulge in my leisure activity, which is photography. Once I get home, I start on my daily exercise regime.
In October 2019, I joined the NASAM Stroke Games. My therapist encouraged me to participate in the 300-metre run for which I won a silver medal. I was proud of myself and continued to be inspired during the event, by fellow stroke survivors from all around Malaysia who took part not only in the competitive activities but also in in the song and dance entertainment during the event.
Today at 33, I am truly grateful to have a life. I fought hard to recover, regain my independence and to return to work. It feels good to be a champion!
Source: Strokenews (Issue 2), May 2021, Inspiration, Pgs. 3 – 6
