SOUTH Eastern Regional College (SERC) has recently triumphed at Northern Irelands first ever Stroke Awards ceremony held at Culloden Hotel, Holywood.
SERC was awarded a Special Recognition Award to recognise their consistent support for the Stroke Association’s work across the UK.
Leading figures from the sector were present at the high profile ceremony including Health Minister Edwin Poots, local celebrities, Government and Health representatives.
The star studded event, organised by the Stroke Association Northern Ireland, celebrated the courage and dedication of people across Northern Ireland who have been affected by or work with stroke. The awards also recognised the compassion and unfailing commitment of people and organisations to rebuild lives that have been affected by stroke.
Famous faces attending the glittering event, which was sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, included BBC’s Noel Thompson, Downtown Radio’s Candy Devine, playwright Martin Lynch, actor and comedian Tim Megarry, Everest climber Dawson Stelfox and local artist Julian Friers.
Awards were presented in ten categories covering personal courage, corporate support and the dedication and commitment of groups and individuals.
Speaking at the event in the Culloden Hotel in Holywood, Mr Poots said: “Tonight’s event is a magnificent and fitting way to recognize and reward some of those affected by or working with stroke. It is important to recognize those who have worked hard to rebuild their lives following a stroke and also the dedication and support provided by families, carers and professionals on a daily basis.
“So I wish to congratulate all the winners here tonight and celebrate their achievements. I am especially honoured to present the award for professional excellence to Dr Michael Power and Maureen Matthews of the Stroke Unit at the Ulster Hospital.”
Tom Richardson, Director for the Stroke Association Northern Ireland said: “Around thirty two thousand people across Northern Ireland are living with the effects of stroke. The Northern Ireland Stroke Awards not only highlight how stroke can affect anyone at any age, but also the impact the condition has on families, carers and health care professionals. All of the award winners have shown tremendous courage in rebuilding their lives after a stroke or in helping others to do the same. I am delighted that we are able to recognise and celebrate their achievements with some of our esteemed friends and colleagues.”
On receiving the award, Roger Duncan, Head of Pastoral Care and Guidance at SERC, said: “We’re delighted to have won the Special Recognition Award. It’s fantastic recognition of the work undertaken by the staff in the College and we are delighted to be able to provide continued support to the Stroke Association.”
