Stroke Matters Podcast by StrokeLINK

Lauren McDunphy and Melissa Gannon, StrokeLINK nurses
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Recovering from a stroke or supporting someone who has is a journey filled with questions, challenges, and milestones. The Stroke Matters Podcast brings together healthcare professionals, specialists, and lived-experience voices to break down complex medical topics into clear, practical guidance. From understanding stroke causes and managing post-stroke fatigue to speech recovery, nutrition, and daily rehabilitation at home, each episode provides compassionate insights to help survivors and caregivers navigate life after stroke with confidence. You can learn more about living well after stroke, or how to prevent a stroke on our website: https://strokelink.ie/ Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Episodes

  1. Oct 2

    Communication Difficulties After Stroke Explained with speech and language therapists Rachel and Laura - Ep 4

    Here is the description for Episode 4 of the Stroke Matters Podcast, focused on communication difficulties, tailored to the StrokeLINK channel's style. Communication impairments affect approximately 1 in 3 stroke survivors. In this episode of the Stroke Matters Podcast, Lauren and Melissa speak with Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) Rachel and Laura from the Mater Hospital. Together, they explore the complexities of post-stroke communication, including aphasia, dysarthria, and apraxia, while providing practical strategies to help survivors find their voice again. Whether you are navigating communication changes yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode offers expert advice on rebuilding confidence and staying connected. In this episode, you’ll learn: The common types of communication impairments: Aphasia, Dysarthria, and Apraxia. Why "all communication is valid"—using pictures, writing, and gestures. How music and melody can help "unlock" words when spontaneous speech is difficult. The "Communications Card" strategy for navigating social situations and shops. Safety tips for independent living, including the use of pendant alarms. The impact of fatigue and stress on communication and when to "park it" and rest. Resources Mentioned: Visit our website for more information and resources: https://www.strokelink.ie Better Conversations with Aphasia (UCL): https://www.ucl.ac.uk/short-courses/search-courses/better-conversations-aphasia-e-learning-resource Irish Heart Foundation Stroke Support: https://irishheart.ie Timestamps:  0:00 - Introduction to Stroke Matters Podcast 1:25 - Meet Rachel and Laura, Speech & Language Therapists 3:55 - Understanding Aphasia (Dysphasia) and its types 5:00 - Motor Speech Disorders: Dysarthria & Apraxia explained 7:00 - Functional goals: Practicing for the bus or ordering a coffee 8:50 - The power of music: Using song to unlock speech 10:45 - Helpful therapy apps and resources 12:20 - Strategies for family 14:15 - Managing the "Hidden Disability": Social isolation and peer support 15:15 - Practical Tip: The Communication Card 18:50 - Safety at home: Pendant alarms and risk assessments 20:30 - How fatigue and stress impact your speech 21:55 - Final advice: Patience and the journey of recovery Join the Conversation: If you found this episode helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to help us spread this vital information. Remember: Stroke matters, and you matter. #Aphasia #StrokeRecovery #SpeechTherapy #StrokeMatters #StrokeLINK #BrainInjury #CommunicationMatters

  2. Oct 1

    Post-Stroke Fatigue Explained with Libby Cunningham - Ep 3

    Post-stroke fatigue affects roughly 1 in 2 stroke survivors. In this episode of the Stroke Matters Podcast, Lauren and Melissa—Stroke Link nurses at the Mater Hospital—welcome Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist, Libby Cunningham. With nearly 25 years of experience, Libby helps demystify post-stroke fatigue, often called the "hidden symptom" of stroke. Whether you are navigating your own recovery or supporting a loved one, this episode offers vital insights into why fatigue happens and, more importantly, how to manage it to reclaim your quality of life. In this episode, you’ll learn: The crucial difference between "normal" tiredness and post-stroke fatigue. How fatigue after a stroke manifests physically, mentally, and emotionally. Why "looking great" on the outside doesn't always reflect how a survivor feels on the inside. The "Water Bottle" analogy for understanding depleted energy levels. Practical management strategies: Using a fatigue diary, the "3-section" day, and the importance of planning, pacing, prioritization and pausing/resting. How to communicate your needs to family, friends, and "gatekeep" your energy. Resources Mentioned: Visit our website for more information and resources: https://www.strokelink.ie Irish Heart Foundation Stroke Support: https://irishheart.ie Stroke Association resources: https://www.stroke.org.uk/stroke/effe... Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) & Stroke Association UK resources. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to Stroke Matters Podcast 1:16 - Meet Libby Cunningham, Clinical Specialist OT 3:18 - What is post-stroke fatigue? (The hidden symptom) 5:07 - Physical vs. Mental vs. Emotional fatigue 7:25 - The "Double-Edged Sword": Looking well vs. feeling fatigued 10:12 - Does stroke severity affect fatigue levels? 12:00 - How long does post-stroke fatigue last? 13:31 - Psychological impacts: Irritability & sensory overload 16:32 - Tips for management: Validating your experience 18:30 - Using a Fatigue Diary to track triggers 20:30 - Planning and Pacing: Structuring your day 24:00 - Summary of Top Tips: Prioritizing "meaningful" energy 27:00 - Final advice for survivors and families Join the Conversation: If you found this episode helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to help us spread this vital information. Remember: Stroke matters, and you matter. #PostStrokeFatigue #StrokeRecovery #OccupationalTherapy #StrokeMatters #StrokeLINK #BrainHealth #PatientEducation #LifeAfterStroke

    Post-Stroke Fatigue Explained with Libby Cunningham - Ep 3

  3. Oct 1

    Understanding Stroke & How to Prevent It with Lauren McDunphy and Melissa Gannon - Ep 2

    Up to 80% of strokes are preventable. In this episode of the Stroke Matters Podcast, Lauren and Melissa, StrokeLINK nurses at the Mater Hospital dive deep into the essentials of stroke prevention. Whether you are a stroke survivor, a family member, or simply looking to protect your brain health, this episode provides actionable advice on managing risk factors and recognizing the warning signs. In this episode, you’ll learn: The difference between Ischemic and Hemorrhagic strokes. How to use the BE-FAST test to identify a stroke in progress. The most significant "modifiable" risk factors, including blood pressure and lifestyle choices. Practical tips for monitoring your blood pressure at home. Resources Mentioned: Visit our website for more information and self-monitoring guides: https://www.strokelink.ie Watch our tutorial on how to use a home blood pressure monitor:    • Measuring Blood Pressure at Home  Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to Stroke Matters Podcast 0:53 - What is a stroke? (Types explained) 1:31 - Recognizing the signs: The BE FAST Test 2:30 - Modifiable vs. Non-modifiable risk factors 3:13 - Medical risk factors: Blood pressure & Cholesterol 4:10 - Lifestyle risk factors & the importance of GP checkups 4:40 - How to monitor blood pressure at home 5:57 - Evidence-based lifestyle changes (Diet & Exercise) 7:45 - What to expect later in the series 8:16 - Summary: Your role in stroke prevention Join the Conversation: If you found this episode helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to help us spread this vital information. Remember: Stroke matters, and you matter. #StrokePrevention #BrainHealth #StrokeMatters #StrokeLINK #HealthEducation

  4. Oct 1

    Stroke Explained with Dr. Michael Marnane - Ep 1

    What is a stroke, and why does every minute count? In the debut episode of the Stroke Matters Podcast, Lauren and Melissa are joined by Dr. Michael Marnane, Consultant Neurologist at the Mater University Hospital. Together, they break down the medical complexities of stroke into understandable terms, discuss the latest life-saving treatments, and share why there is so much reason for hope in stroke recovery today. In this episode, we cover: The Science of Stroke: Understanding Ischemic vs. Hemorrhagic strokes. The 1 in 4 Statistic: Why stroke awareness is more important than ever. BE FAST: The expanded acronym for identifying stroke symptoms immediately. Recovery & Hope: Why 56% of survivors in Ireland make a full or near-full recovery. Young Stroke: Addressing the rising incidence of stroke in people of working age. Prevention: The "Power of One"—how managing blood pressure can halve stroke risk. Featured Guest: Dr. Michael Marnane, Consultant Neurologist at the Mater University Hospital and Clinical Professor at UCD. Resources Mentioned: StrokeLINK Website: Comprehensive guides and support resources: https://www.strokelink.ie Support Organizations: Irish Heart Foundation, Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, and Headway. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to the Stroke Matters Podcast 0:41 - Meet Dr. Michael Marnane 1:26 - The prevalence of stroke (1 in 4 people) 2:30 - What exactly is a stroke? 3:22 - The BE FAST Test: Recognizing the signs 4:07 - Types of Stroke: Ischemic (85%) vs. Hemorrhagic (15%) 5:30 - Common risk factors (Blood pressure, Smoking, Lifestyle) 6:57 - Misconceptions: Recovery is possible 7:45 - The journey of a patient: From emergency to clinic 10:30 - Factors for a successful recovery at home 13:10 - Advances in treatment: Clot-busting & Thrombectomy 15:30 - Stroke in younger people: Stats and trends 17:15 - How to prevent 80% of strokes 22:45 - Advice for survivors and caregivers 28:40 - The importance of medication adherence 30:13 - Closing thoughts: Stroke matters, and you matter. Support the Show: If you found this episode helpful, please like, share, and subscribe. Sharing this video could help someone recognize the signs of a stroke and save a life. #StrokeAwareness #StrokeLINK #Neurology #BrainHealth #StrokeMatters #HealthEducation #IrishHealth

    Stroke Explained with Dr. Michael Marnane - Ep 1
  • 4 Episodes

About

Recovering from a stroke or supporting someone who has is a journey filled with questions, challenges, and milestones. The Stroke Matters Podcast brings together healthcare professionals, specialists, and lived-experience voices to break down complex medical topics into clear, practical guidance. From understanding stroke causes and managing post-stroke fatigue to speech recovery, nutrition, and daily rehabilitation at home, each episode provides compassionate insights to help survivors and caregivers navigate life after stroke with confidence. You can learn more about living well after stroke, or how to prevent a stroke on our website: https://strokelink.ie/ Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Information

  • Creator
    Lauren McDunphy and Melissa Gannon, StrokeLINK nurses
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    4
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stroke Matters Podcast by StrokeLINK
  • Show Website
    Stroke Matters Podcast by StrokeLINK