When Domenic Lomini experienced a huge stroke in 2018, he and wife Liz thought their lives would never be the same. They were watching television together when Dom began to dribble.
“I wasn’t aware of the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke, I just knew something wasn’t right with Dom. We’ve been together for 50 years, so call it a mother’s instinct, I knew he needed help immediately,” Liz said.
“I called triple 000 and three ambulances arrived within four minutes. The doctors told us Dom had experienced a significant brain bleed. It was touch and go at first, we didn’t know if we were going to lose him.”
Dom had to learn to walk, talk and eat again. After months of gruelling rehabilitation, he was eventually able to come home with his family by his side.
“It was difficult and exhausting, like a constant battle. I was determined to get home and recover. I wanted to get back to my life and all the things I found meaningful,” Dom said.
“It’s been five years since my stroke, and I am still working on reaching my goals. My latest goal is to take my grandson to the park.
“Some days are hard, but we keep going. I believe the love of my life saved me, and I keep going to be with the people I love.”
Dom and Liz’s story will be featured in the first Italian version of My Stroke Journey, a resource which is delivered by health professionals in hospital in the first few days after a person’s stroke to support their transition from hospital to home and guide their recovery.
It’s the first time the resource has been translated.
“When Dom was in hospital, we weren’t given any information at all. We hope our experience will help others,” Liz said.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy said the resource will also be translated into Arabic, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Greek, Hindi, Korean and Vietnamese.
“We know stroke can happen to anyone at any time, it doesn’t discriminate. An Australian has a stroke every 19 minutes, that’s why we need to ensure everyone has the information they deserve when they are in hospital,” Dr Murphy said.
“The booklet contains some vital information for families in those first few days after stroke including, how the stroke will affect them and what happens when it’s time to leave hospital.
“We’re grateful for the Lomini’s for sharing their story, we know it will go towards making sure other families are not left feeling isolated and alone after a stroke.”
