Double stroke survivor Douglas Sewell from Nairn is a finalist at national charity awards
A DOUBLE stroke survivor has been shortlisted for volunteer of the year at the Scottish Charity Awards.
Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) volunteer Douglas Sewell, (68) from Nairn has been put towards the public vote ahead of the awards ceremony on October 1 at an online ceremony.
CHSS is encouraging those in the community to vote for Douglas in the volunteer of year category
Since Mr Sewell suffered from the strokes, in 2003 and 2010, he has become deeply involved with the work of Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland as a fundraiser, a trustee, an active member of the charities working groups as well as being a volunteer for nearly four years.
Immediately after his first stroke Mr Sewell had great difficulty walking, talking or eating.
He devotes his time to helping other survivors with their recovery, offering lifeline one-to-one support to build their confidence, get active again and improve their wellbeing. He helps people see beyond their stroke and live life to the full.
Tracey Groom, volunteer and community spokeswoman for CHSS explains what Douglas means to the charity,
She said: “We see Douglas as more than a volunteer we see him as a life-changer!
“His story of how physical activity helped his stroke recovery has inspired so many survivors to rebuild their lives.
“We are just thrilled that he has been recognised as a finalist in the volunteer of the year category and we are asking and urging the community to vote for him so that he can get the recognition he deserves for everything he has done for the people we support, she continued.
"He truly is an inspiration.”
Mr Sewell said: “It’s wonderful to be nominated for this award. I do what I do for CHSS because I get so much fun and enjoyment from my various involvements with the charity and I wasn't expecting anything like this.
“They helped me see past my stroke and it’s a privilege to be involved in helping others in the same way. There are 8,000 people who volunteer for CHSS, and I hope I can do them all proud on the night.”
The charity is also a finalist for Campaign of the Year for their Long Covid Care Now Campaign which continues to raise awareness, and push for better care, making sure that those living with Long Covid across Scotland don’t become the forgotten victims of the.
To vote for Mr Sewell and CHSS visit, https://scvo.scot/scottish-charity-awards/finalists-2021.
READ: PICTURES: Nairn stroke survivors epic adventure
