When Jeremy had a stroke at 51, the physical effects were only part of the challenge. Although he was left with weakness in his left arm and hand, it was the emotional impact that proved harder to overcome.

Before his stroke in February 2024, Jeremy led an active, sociable life. He loved walking, running and golf, followed Coventry City with his two sons, and was always organising get-togethers with family and friends.

‘I loved making people laugh and enjoyed being around people,’ he says.

After his stroke, fatigue, brain fog and anxiety made everyday situations feel overwhelming. ‘I struggle to process information and find socialising in busy pubs or restaurants unbearable. I can’t cope with the noise of different conversations, glasses and cutlery clattering.

‘I went through a really low period. I was frustrated because I didn't feel like my old self. I started avoiding people and made excuses not to meet family and friends.

‘The loss of confidence hit me hard. I used to be independent and could cope in any situation, but suddenly I hesitated to do things that had once felt effortless.

‘There were times I wondered, 'Why me?' I felt angry and bitter for a while. It was hard to accept I wasn’t the same person anymore.’

Determined not to let those feelings define his recovery, Jeremy decided to try pickleball on a friend’s recommendation.

Although nervous about walking into a sports club where he knew nobody, he pushed himself to go. ‘I felt like I was starting school again,’ he laughs. ‘But I knew I had to get out of my comfort zone.

‘They were so welcoming. There are people of all ages and abilities, all having fun. I've made so many new friends through pickleball. It gives me something to look forward to every week and, more than anything, it's helped me get my confidence back.’

Pickleball gave Jeremy a new hobby, and a gentle way to stay active, at a time when he could no longer enjoy some of the sports he loved.

‘It’s low-impact and the paddles are light, so it doesn’t matter that my left-hand grip isn’t fully back. It’s improved my coordination, and socialising has helped my speech.’

Jeremy still has to manage his fatigue carefully, taking breaks when needed and allowing himself time to recover afterwards, but says the benefits far outweigh the challenges.

‘It's not just about the exercise. It's about getting out of the house, meeting people, having a laugh and feeling part of something again. It gave me a purpose when I'd lost a lot of what made me feel like me.

‘People see you walking around and think you're back to normal, but they don't see what’s going on inside. I’m not the person I was, and I've had to accept that. Instead, I'm trying to become a new version of myself.’

His message to other stroke survivors is one of hope and patience. ‘Set yourself small goals every day. Listen to your body and don't compare your recovery with anyone else's because everyone's journey is different. Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask for support and try something new. Stepping outside your comfort zone might feel frightening, but it could be the thing that helps you find your confidence again.’

Need inspiration?

Trying a new activity, for fun, relaxation or learning, can support your recovery and wellbeing. Visit our hobbies and leisure activities page for information and ideas.

Stroke News magazine

This article is featured in the summer 2026 edition of our magazine, Stroke News. Subscribe to our future editions available in print, on audio CD or via email.