Priscilla Murphy, MS, MEd, NCC, BSN, RNC leads the "Thumbs Up" Stroke Support Group. Ms. Murphy President of Nylex Education and Consulting Services and President of the Tau Eta Chapter of the Chi Eta Phi Nursing Sorority. She has planned and organized an impressive program of speakers and activities beginning in September. Ms. Murphy can be contacted by call the DSI office at 302.633.9313 or by email at: destrokeinitiative@yahoo.com

Purpose of a Stroke Support Group
Stroke survivors may be young or older adults, minimally or severely physically or cognitively impaired, employed or unemployed, and have few family and community resources available to them. Successful recovery from stroke is not limited to physical recovery or return to the pre-stroke activity level. Following a stroke, individuals may need support in understanding and dealing with stroke-related effects of physical and social functioning. There may be very subtle or very noticeable changes in personality after a stroke that affect mood, sexual functioning, problem-solving abilities, and sensory changes that affect quality of life (QOL).

Reintegration to normal life at home may require many adjustments. The Delaware Stroke Initiative (DSI) is pleased to support the "Thumbs Up" support group as an important community service to help stroke survivors and their families learn about community resources, to get educational information and to share their personal experiences in a positive supportive environment.

Meetings
Meetings are currently held in Newark, DE. Plans are underway for a second meeting location in Wilmington. Details will be announced at a later time.

Who is Eligible to Attend
Each individual who has recovered from a stroke, their families and friends are welcome to attend. Health care professionals are also invited to attend and participate in meetings. Parking and all meetings are free of charge. The facility is on the first floor and is wheelchair accessible.