For John, the best days start with having something to look forward to.
Life after stroke has changed many things, but it hasn’t changed what matters most to him. Whether it’s heading to the gym, catching a Geelong Cats game, or meeting friends for a coffee, it’s these everyday moments that keep him motivated and focused on living life to the fullest.
“I like waking up knowing I’ve got something to look forward to,” John said.
Before his stroke, John spent years working as a truck driver. Driving was more than just a job; it was part of who he was. Outside of work, he enjoyed tenpin bowling, country music and spending time with family and friends.
Family and friendship have always been important to John. Whether it’s catching up with friends or cheering on the Geelong Cats, staying connected to the people around him continues to play an important role in his wellbeing.
Life changed dramatically after his stroke.
“I’ve had to deal with a lot of changes in my life since my stroke,” John reflected.
John’s stroke recovery has involved adjusting to a very different way of living. Losing his mobility and no longer being able to drive meant redefining his daily routine and the way he participated in the community. But rather than focusing on what he could no longer do, John has worked hard to build confidence, regain independence and continue participating in the things that matter most to him.
John’s Client Services Officer, Aidan, has seen that determination firsthand. He describes John as someone who has approached recovery with patience, persistence and a willingness to embrace change. Even when setbacks occur, John continues to believe that improvement is possible, an outlook that has helped him keep moving forward.
Today, John is proud of the progress he has made.
Getting back to the gym has become an important part of his routine, helping him build strength while supporting both his physical and mental wellbeing.
“Getting back into the gym has been important. It keeps me moving.”
He has also learned to confidently use his powered wheelchair, giving him greater independence and the freedom to get out into the community. With encouragement from his support team, he’s developed skills in preparing his own breakfast and making coffee, small achievements that have made a big difference to his everyday life.
For John, having a routine is just as important as the activities themselves.
“The support is pretty good. It keeps me motivated.”
“It’s good to have a routine.”
Through the support he receives from eQuality Support, John has built a routine that helps him stay active, connected and engaged with his community. Some of John’s favourite days include heading to GMHBA Stadium to watch the Geelong Cats with his friend Glenn, catching a movie with his support workers, spending time along the Geelong waterfront or even enjoying a game of darts. It’s these everyday experiences and social connections that continue to bring purpose and enjoyment to his week.
Looking ahead, John already has something special to look forward to. A longtime Anthony Callea fan, John is excited to attend his upcoming concert in Geelong later this year, continuing an interest he has enjoyed for many years.
“A good day is waking up knowing I’ve got something to look forward to.”
As we recognise National Stroke Week, John’s journey reminds us that life after stroke looks different for everyone. While recovery can bring significant change, the right support can help people rebuild confidence, maintain independence and continue participating in the activities that matter most. Through our personalised Supported Independent Living (SIL) and NDIS disability support services, we help people build independence, pursue their goals and continue doing the things that matter most to them. Whether that’s learning new skills, staying connected to the community or simply having something to look forward to each day, our focus is always on the person and the life they want to lead.
Learn more about our Supported Independent Living services, discover our person-centred approach, or explore careers, with eQuality Support to see how we’re making a difference every day.
