KEY POINTS:
Having a stroke changes lives. Victims are often left feeling abandoned and isolated.
There are about 8000 new stroke victims every year in New Zealand, and of those, around 2000 are younger than retirement age.
Barbara Mexted of Whakatane was visiting England with her husband Harold when he had a stroke in 1992.
Once home, they were invited to join the Whakatane Stroke Club. Mrs Mexted's answer was no. But two years later she was not only a member, but also the president.
Every month, Mrs Mexted greets 30 to 40 members at the Whakatane Disability Resource Centre before helping to push wheelchairs and show people to their seats.
"Someone had to take over when the old president left," she said. "I just feel that when you have a stroke you're often left feeling deserted. I do it because I enjoy seeing people enjoying themselves. We share a lot of laughs."
The monthly meeting involves singing, a guest speaker, bingo and lotto, and a lunch.
Mrs Mexted also organises and helps deliver a monthly newsletter, visits people in hospital, and runs a weekly card game at the Golden Pond retirement home where residents and club members are invited.
Gaynor Hyde, whose husband is a member of the club, said she was at a loss when he had a stroke seven years ago, but a phone call from Mrs Mexted changed everything.
"She invited us to join the club, wanted to know if there was anything she could do for us, and pointed us in the right direction for further help," she said. "Barbara's one of those people you just don't come across too often."
