Rebecca has been awarded a special certificate of commendation in the Stroke Association's Life After Stroke awards.

These accolades recognise the courage and determination it takes to carry on after the devastating effects of a stroke.

Rebecca (25) said: "It's quite something to get the award.

"You don't often get something like this, but it has been difficult after the stroke."

She was just 23 and 20 weeks pregnant with her first child at the time.

She was the manager of a shoe shop in the town centre. But weak blood vessels in her brain suddenly burst.

She is believed to have been born with the weakness. It is thought the pregnancy's strain on her body pushed them beyond breaking point. Rebecca, of Tennyson Road, spent eight months in hospital during which she had two craniotomies and gave birth to Rachel.

She then spent a further six months in a rehabilitation unit.

The effect of the stroke left her unable to speak and completely paralysed on her right side. But Rebecca was determined to overcome the disabilities.

She learnt to walk again when she was 36 weeks' pregnant and has also learnt how to talk again. She is an accomplished mother to Rachel (now 18 months) and juggles continual rehabilitation with her parental role in spite of still being paralysed in her right arm.

She receives help from two carers, including her mother, Elizabeth Board, along with her husband Phil and social services.

Phil (37) nominated Rebecca for an adult courage award and summed up the past two years: "Heartbreak, tears and trauma. Then inspiration, courage, miracles, a positive attitude and more tears.

"I know of no-one more deserving. Rebecca and Rachel are both miracles in every sense."

Media officer Jo Bowles, of the Stroke Association, said: "We are absolutely delighted to award this commendation certificate to Rebecca.

"She thoroughly deserves this in recognition of her achievements and tremendous courage shown in overcoming the effects of her stroke. Rebecca really is living proof that there is life after a stroke."



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