This book gives you in one place, so far as I'm concerned for the first time, everything that a stroke survivor in modern Britain really needs to know. It tells you what happened, and probably why, and what can be done about it. It does not shirk the grim bits. It explains the jargon. But, while Tom Balchin does not sugar-coat the assault on the brain and its effects, on almost every page he gives the reader reasons for optimism and essential information.

Andrew Marr

Broadcaster, Journalist, Author

This comprehensive and empowering book is a must-read for stroke survivors and their families. The book uses Tom Balchins own experience of stroke, as well as his work with others over the past two decades. It is highly readable and provides clear explanations of every step of the stroke journey as well as no-nonsense practical steps that everyone can take to improve their quality of life after stroke.

Professor Heidi Johansen-Berg

Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience, Director, Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging & Director, Plasticity Group at Oxford Centre for Functional MRI of the Brain, Oxford University.

This is an engaging, easy to read book, suitable for anyone on their journey following a stroke as well as for their family, friends and carers. It focuses on how to personally tailor the retraining of mind and body to optimise recovery from stroke. Toms messages instil hope and confidence, and a desire to try yet harder and achieve great things that matter to the individual; yet the book is also written with compassion and kindness to accept limitations that may remain. Thank you, Tom, for putting together this roadmap to recovery for stroke survivors.

Professor Sarah Dean

Professor of Psychology Applied to Rehabilitation and Health, University of Exeter Medical School.

Who better to write a guide to stroke recovery than someone who has had one? And of those, there can be none better than Tom. He’s smart, and studied the science to find ways to ‘go beyond the usual’. No quackery, this, but an inspirational and practical evidence – and experienced-based recipe for recovery. I strongly commend it.

Professor Hugh Montgomery

Professor of Intensive Care Medicine, UCL, Consultant Intensivist at the Whittington Hospital, Head of Centre at the Human Health and Performance, UCL Division of Medicine, Director of Research at The Institute for Sport, Exercise and Health, London.

The book is an excellent guide for stroke survivors. It provides essential information about multidimensional aspects of stroke, from its impacts on the body to rehabilitation strategies. The illustration of fundamental exercises and explanation of evidence-based practice models make it highly appropriate for readers.

Dr Mohsen Shafizadeh

Professor of Psychology ASenior Lecturer in Clinical Motor Control and Movement Analysis, Sheffield Hallam University