Clodagh Dunlop suffered a stroke ten years ago
Clodagh, a PSNI detective, had a brainstem stroke 10 years ago that left her paralysed with locked-in syndrome and only able to communicate by blinking one eye.
She receives an MBE for her work with stroke survivors.
After seven and a half months in hospital, then learning to walk and talk again in intensive rehab, the 45-year-old continues to make a recovery, though she still has disabilities.
Now back with the force as a serving officer, she is honoured for her work highlighting the danger of younger people with strokes being misdiagnosed and the importance of fast access to life-saving surgery.
In a letter to Derry Daily, the Stroke Association NI say:
“Dear editor,
“On behalf of everyone at Stroke Association NI, may I offer our warm congratulations to Clodagh Dunlop on being made an MBE for services to stroke survivors and the reform of stroke services.
“Clodagh, from Magherafelt, was just 35 when a brain stem stroke left her unable to speak or move while knowing everything that was going on around her.
“Clodagh underwent a procedure called a thrombectomy to remove a clot in her brain. Seven years on, this procedure which saves brains and changes lives is still not available 24/7 in Northern Ireland.
“Clodagh is a fervent supporter of our “Saving Brains” campaign urging the Health Minister to keep his pledge to rectify this by the end of 2024 – this is a target we simply cannot afford to miss.
“Clodagh also actively supports our “Thriving After Stroke” campaign, calling for people to have the support they need to live well after a stroke
“As she rebuilt her life after her stroke, Clodagh has worked tirelessly to campaign with Stroke Association NI, using her personal experience to call for better care, support and services for stroke survivors.
“Her honour is richly deserved.
“Alasdair O’Hara
“Associate Director Northern Ireland
“The Stroke Association.”
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