Recovering from a stroke isn’t just about what happens in the hospital. For many survivors like Tom Cordock from Manchester, UK, real progress starts at home.
In this article, you’ll hear Tom’s firsthand story about how his stroke changed his life, what parts of his body were affected, and how using Flint Rehab’s FitMi home therapy helped him start moving his arm and hand again.
If you’re wondering whether recovery is still possible months or even years after a stroke, Tom’s story may give you the hope and motivation you need.
Let’s jump in.
Christmas Eve: Tom’s Stroke Changed Everything
Tom’s stroke came unexpectedly, right in the middle of not just a regular day but Christmas Eve.
“My stroke happened on December 24, 2018 on Christmas Eve. I was just taking a shower when I suddenly collapsed.”
Like many stroke survivors, Tom didn’t know what was happening at the time. But in an instant his life completely changed.
Impact of the Stroke on Tom and His Body
After the stroke, Tom says he experienced significant weakness, particularly on one side of his body.
“My arm and hand were the main areas affected. It’s been just over six months since the stroke, and in the beginning, I couldn’t grip anything at all.”
The loss of grip strength and control is common among stroke survivors, especially when the stroke impacts the motor cortex or affects the brain’s ability to send signals to the limbs. For Tom, this meant that even simple daily tasks like holding a fork or buttoning his shirt became nearly impossible.
Starting Recovery at Home: Downloading the Free Resources from Flint Rehab
Tom’s first step toward recovery didn’t involve a clinic or a therapist. It began with something simple: downloading a free ebook and resources from Flint Rehab.
“First of all, I downloaded the free ebooks from Flint Rehab. That got me interested in the FitMi home therapy system.”
These ebooks are designed to educate stroke survivors and caregivers on the importance of neuroplasticity which is the brain’s ability to rewire itself after injury. They also offer actionable tips and introduce tools that can help jumpstart recovery from home.
Learn more about Flint Rehab eBooks here.
Discovering FitMi: A Game-Changer for Arm and Hand Recovery
After learning about FitMi, Tom decided to give it a try. FitMi is a home therapy device that turns rehab exercises into an interactive experience. It guides users through tailored movements for the arms, hands, and legs, while tracking progress in real time.
“FitMi has helped me gain movement in my arm. I can now move it across, up, and down and I’m using utensils again!”
For Tom, being able to pick up a fork, grip it, and release it was a major milestone.
“Before FitMi, I couldn’t grip anything. But now, with the exercises and the breathing techniques, I’m starting to open and close my hand again.”
Learn more about the FitMi here.
Small Wins That Mean Everything
What may sound like small movements to some like gripping a fork, or moving an arm slightly can be huge achievements for stroke survivors.
“My hand is still a bit tight, but the gripping exercises are helping. I’m using FitMi to practice holding and releasing, and I’ve got more feeling back in my hand and fingers.”
This type of functional recovery is possible thanks to repetition and consistency. FitMi encourages daily movement and tracks your progress along the way, so you can see how far you’ve come.
Tom’s Tip: Start with the Free Ebooks
When asked what advice he’d give other stroke survivors considering a Flint Rehab product, Tom didn’t hesitate:
“I would say do what I did. Download the free ebooks. You’ll see other people using FitMi and progressing too. It really does work.”
Seeing real-life examples and getting step-by-step guidance gave Tom the confidence to move forward with his recovery.
Learn more about Flint Rehab free eBooks here.
A Big Thumbs Up for FitMi
For Tom, the results have been more than just physical. They’ve been emotional, too.
“It’s a big thumbs up from me.”
Even though his journey is still ongoing, Tom’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery doesn’t have to stop after the hospital or formal therapy ends. With the right tools and the right mindset, progress is always possible.
Why Tom’s Story Matters
Tom’s story matters because it’s real. It’s not a marketing pitch or a clinical trial but a stroke survivor doing the work, day by day, from his home in Manchester.
It highlights a few key truths:
- Home therapy works. With the right support, many stroke survivors can make gains at home, even months or years after their stroke.
- Progress is personal. Gripping a fork might not sound like a big deal to someone else, but for a survivor, it’s freedom and independence.
- You don’t have to do it alone. Free resources like ebooks, video guides, and communities can help you find the motivation and information you need.
Inspired by Tom? Start Your Own Journey
If you or a loved one is recovering from a stroke and wondering what comes next, Tom’s story is proof that movement is possible even if it’s just one small step at a time.
Here’s how to get started:
- Download the free stroke rehab ebooks
- Check out our free video resources on YouTube
- Explore FitMi home therapy
- Read more stroke survivor stories
Recovery is a journey. Tom’s still on his but thanks to FitMi and his own determination, he’s further along than he thought he’d be just six months ago.
Final Thoughts
Everyone’s stroke recovery looks a little different, but Tom’s progress shows what’s possible when you combine the right tools with a can-do attitude. Whether you’re just starting rehab or looking for new ways to keep improving, it’s never too late to try something that could make a real difference.
Give yourself the chance to try. You might surprise yourself—just like Tom did.
Watch the full interview below
