A man named Graham McGowan, aged 53, is speaking out about receiving inadequate treatment for a stroke due to seeking medical attention outside regular hospital hours, resulting in his current paralysis. Graham, from Aboyne, Scotland, experienced a stroke and was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. Doctors there identified a blood clot through a brain scan and recommended a thrombectomy, a procedure to eliminate large artery blood clots.
However, Graham was informed that he couldn’t undergo the thrombectomy at that time as he arrived at the hospital after 9 pm. The nearest specialist thrombectomy hub at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee operates the procedure only from 9 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday. Consequently, Graham received thrombolysis treatment at ARI, a procedure using drugs to dissolve clots and restore blood flow to the brain.
This situation has left Graham completely paralyzed on his left side, prompting him to advocate for 24/7 access to thrombectomy services in Scotland. His once active lifestyle, including work as a performance improvement consultant, trail running, and skiing, has been dramatically altered. Graham’s stroke resulted from a carotid arterial dissection, leading to a blood clot that caused the stroke, despite him being fit and healthy with no prior risk factors.
Post-stroke, Graham faced challenges such as immobility and reliance on a wheelchair, with his wife, Heather, providing significant care and support. He underwent rehabilitation and physiotherapy to regain mobility and independence, eventually progressing from a wheelchair to walking again with assistance.
Graham now aims to walk 50km monthly and volunteers with the Stroke Association’s Deeside Stroke Group. His journey has led him to chair the group, using his experience to help others and advocate for improved stroke care services in Scotland. The Stroke Association and health officials acknowledge the need for round-the-clock thrombectomy services and are working towards enhancing access to vital stroke treatments.
The NHS Grampian spokesperson highlighted the increased access to thrombectomy treatment in Scotland from 2022 to 2024, emphasizing ongoing efforts to enhance access further. Public Health Minister Jenni Minto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving stroke care standards and investing in stroke services to benefit patients.
The Stroke Association offers support to stroke survivors and families through various channels, including online platforms and community services. Those affected by stroke can access support and information on stroke services in Scotland and across the UK through their website.
