Note that this is a collection of suggestions from stroke survivors of all ages and at all stages of their recovery, so they may not all apply to you.

1. Do your physiotherapy religiously - do as much as you are physically capable of. Above all never give in and you'll be a winner.

2. John D'Arcy www.stroke-survivors.co.uk/htm/mystory.htm

3. Don't give in - push yourself to reach your goals. Adrian

4. Keep your sights on your next target.

5. Have a small steps approach to your targets - one thing at a time.

6. Take all predictions about your recovery with a big pinch of salt.

7. Most of your recovery is up to you - nobody else can do it but you.

8. Don't let carers and helpers do things you can try to do for yourself.

9. John D'Arcy likes this quote from a Chinese philosopher: 'a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step'.

10. Urgent! Find yourself some lifelines - e.g. computers - you can use them with one hand; you can swim even if it's in a circle; watch all those old videos; write your life story; take up photography; do all the things you never had time for.

11. Make an effort with all those exercises you're supposed to practise at home - or if nobody has given you a list, find somebody who will.

12. Find something to occupy yourself- don't just sit brooding. Adrian

13. Hang on to your sense of humour - you'll be needing it! Hinds

14. My most valued advice was from another stroke patient: keep talking! Never mind if you sound drunk or mad… talk to people, especially other stroke survivors… talk about anything. It helps the healing to talk about the silly things we say and do. Trysha Hunt

15. Tip for carers: for peace of mind, get a Carer's Card from the National Carers' Association. It gives details of the person you're looking after, should anything happen to stop you getting home.

16. Ask about getting a personal alarm if you're worried about being on your own - Age Concern or Social Services will be able to advise.

17. Mr W took up art - 'Creativity is a great healer - art is as good as they come.'