A teenage stroke survivor who won a coveted gong last year has reflected on his “proudest moment” ahead of this year’s National Stroke Awards.
Buderim’s Jackson King, who had a stroke in utero, was recognised for his “significant efforts to support Stroke Foundation” in 2023, and he is now encouraging people to submit nominations for the 2024 event in May.
The 15-year-old claimed a Stroke Warrior Award, which is presented to children and teenagers who have raised awareness of stroke, supported the recovery of a loved one, or shown drive and resilience in their own recovery.
He was commended for raising money for the foundation, which is more than 70 per cent funded by public donations.
“Being recognised at the awards is my greatest achievement, and the proudest moment I have ever had,” he said.
“It was like I was being recognised for all of the pain and problems I have experienced.”
“Every category at the stroke awards is amazing, but being a child who has had a stroke feels like such a small group of people.
“All children who have a stroke are warriors, and for me to be recognised with the award shows that we do exist, and we have a voice.”
Jackson’s Mum Kerri said seeing him up on stage was a moment the King family would never forget.
“Jackson’s stroke caused him to be hemiplegic, so things are already hard for him, and to win such a prestigious award just helped build his confidence and demonstrate that even as kids you have a voice to make a difference,” she said.
Related story: Buderim teenage stroke survivor nominated for national award
“I look at Jackson and I see how positive and encouraging he is to any other person he meets that has any sort of disability.
“It is his sense of inclusion and accepting all people which is an attribute I wish more people would have.”
The Stroke Awards are open to survivors of stroke, carers, volunteers, fundraisers, health professionals and researchers.
There are eight categories, including the Stroke Warrior Award, Courage Award, Creative Award, Fundraiser of the Year Award, Improving Life after Stroke Award, Volunteer of the Year Award, President’s Achievement Award, and the new First Nations Stroke Excellence Award. Nominations close on February 24.
Winners will be announced at the Stroke Foundation Stroke Awards on Friday, May 4.
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