Ep 11 - Stroke, Recovery and Passionate Life-changing trajectories with Anne Marie McDonnell

In this episode, Head of Program and Service Design at National Learning Network, Rehab Group, Anne Marie McDonnel joined Dr. Dee to discuss how sustaining a stroke in her mid-twenties, changed her career trajectory from working as a Teacher, to entering the disability sector. Since that time, Anne Marie's contagious energy and passionate, enthusiastic approach, have led her to becoming an international ambassador for disability, human rights, equality and inclusion, with her work spanning across Europe and formerly Saudi.    Anne Marie viscerally describes the initial stages of sustaining a stroke and what helped in her recovery journey - from medical to relational and ancillary supports. She and Dr Dee delve into the presenting symptoms and effects experienced post acquired brain injury (ABI) of any description, including stroke, and the frequently hidden internal difficulties which often present for people in the ABI aftermath, after a full physical recovery has seemingly been made.    Anne Marie describes her work with National Learning Network and how it has evolved over the years in serving new and emerging student profiles- from adapting service design and newly changing technologies, to facilitating enhanced person-centredness and enriched student experiences. Anne Marie's work with the European Platform for Rehabilitation, additionally highlights her relentless passion for advocating for diversity, inclusion, equal rights and equal opportunities for all.    This podcast is part of GK Media Studios Creators Network. gkmediastudios.com