Three Years On
Hi, I’m Michael, and I’m a stroke survivor.
A Sliding Doors Moment
The 22nd of July 2025 marks three years since the day my life changed forever. A stroke—a true sliding doors moment—pushed me from one world into another.
Yes, the health challenges were immediate and undeniable. But what came next was much bigger. It was a gateway into new communities, new perspectives, and new purpose.
This journey led me to become an advocate for stroke survivors and people with disability—a role that became the inspiration behind this blog and The Disabled CEO platform.
Reflecting on the Journey
At this three-year milestone, I wanted to reflect on a few powerful moments—each one deeply impactful, and each one worth sharing. Many of them have already made their way into past blog posts. Here are a few that still stand out.
The Wonderful World of Nurses
Over the last three years, I’ve spent time in many hospitals for different reasons. And while every hospital visit had its own challenges, there was always one constant: the nurses.
Their skill, kindness, and quiet strength left a lasting impression. They were often the ones who explained things clearly, gave comfort when I was scared, or just made the hard days a little easier.
I wrote about them in a dedicated post here:
👉 Read: Nurses
The Kindness of Ordinary People
There were moments of unexpected kindness that continue to humble me.
My neighbour mowed our lawn after seeing the ambulance—without ever asking why.
A local café owner taught me how to order coffee in sign language when I lost the ability to speak.
A restaurant chef quietly cut up my food in the kitchen so I could eat with one hand.
My gym coach helped rebuild not just my body, but my confidence, too.
These seemingly small acts had a profound impact. I captured more of this in another post:
👉 Read: Rehab Beyond Hospitals
Helping Others Along the Way
In 2023, I met Nicole Christodolou, a young stroke survivor who had been selected for the ParaMatildas—Australia’s national team for women with disability.
Despite this incredible achievement, Nicole faced the harsh reality of self-funding everything from training to travel. Her story gave me a mission.
Together with others, we raised $10,000 in a single day to help make her dream possible.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
I wouldn’t wish a stroke on anyone. But I can honestly say the experience has opened my eyes to a world I wouldn’t have otherwise known.
It has brought pain—but also perspective. Challenges—but also growth. And above all, it’s brought people into my life who have helped me heal, adapt, and thrive.
Here’s to continuing the journey—and to helping others on theirs.