About our mission, purpose and journey

In 1984, amidst the challenging backdrop of the miners' strike, six remarkable individuals in Wrexham had a vision. They saw a pressing need for a supportive community for those affected by stroke, and from their dedication, a club was born. Resources were scarce, and community networks were strained, yet their resolve was unwavering.

This visionary founding team included Eric Edwards, a stroke survivor who served as Chairman, Efion Roberts, another stroke survivor and Vice-Secretary, and George Smith, a stroke survivor, and Committee Member. They were joined by Bryn Williams, an ambulance driver who took on the role of Secretary, Irene Kaye, an Occupational Therapist and Treasurer, and Myfanwy Smith, a carer, and Committee Member. These pioneers laid the groundwork for what would become the Wrexham and District Stroke and Social Club, the oldest independent stroke club in Wales, predating even the establishment of the Stroke Association in 1992.

As our current secretary, Gwyndaf Owen, reflects, "The club was founded by this visionary group, who saw the need for stroke support in the community. They worked hard to set up the club, and to keep it going for four decades. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude, and we hope to honour their legacy by continuing their work."

Our mission today remains true to the founders' original intent: to provide a supportive and inclusive community for stroke survivors, their families, caregivers, and friends. Through social activities and peer connections, we strive to enhance the quality of life for everyone touched by stroke.

Chairman Keith Samuels emphasizes the profound impact of the club: "I’ve seen the club help stroke survivors cope with the challenges of living with stroke. Enabling them to meet new friends who understand what they are going through. It’s a lifeline for them and their carers in Wrexham."

Today, the club continues to foster vital connections among stroke survivors, providing a safe space for open dialogue, empathy, and encouragement. These regular meetings are crucial for combating the isolation and loneliness often experienced by stroke survivors. Sharing stories, challenges, and triumphs offers invaluable emotional support and camaraderie.

Beyond these crucial connections, we organize a vibrant array of social events, outings, and recreational activities. These gatherings promote social interaction, combat isolation, and encourage a sense of belonging. Our activities include meals out, games, quizzes, group outings to local attractions, and even an annual weekend break. These social activities offer a much-needed respite from medical appointments and therapy sessions, bringing joy and purpose to the lives of stroke survivors. Engaging minds through brain games, puzzles, and discussions during club meetings also plays a key role in cognitive rehabilitation.

We also recognize the indispensable role of families and caregivers in stroke recovery. The club provides much-needed emotional support for these unsung heroes, acknowledging their unique challenges and celebrating their unwavering resilience.

As our Assistant Treasurer, Hilary Owens, beautifully puts it, "Our Stroke Club is a wonderful place to be. It is a friendly, supportive, and fun group, where you can find hope and happiness after stroke. If you are looking for stroke support in Wrexham, please come and join us."

The Wrexham and District Stroke and Social Club stands as a testament to forty years of dedication, compassion, and a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of stroke survivors and their loved ones.

The stroke club aims to provide a supportive and inclusive community for stroke survivors, their families, caregivers, and friends. Through social activities and peer connections, the club seeks to enhance the quality of life for those touched by stroke.

 Peer Support:

• The club fosters connections among stroke survivors,  encouraging  them to share experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
• Regular meetings provide a safe space for open dialogue, empathy, and encouragement.
• Members learn from each other’s coping strategies and resilience.

Social Activities:

• The club organises regular social events, outings, and recreational activities.
• These gatherings promote social interaction, combat isolation, and encourage a sense of belonging.
• Activities may include meals out, games, quizzes, group outings to local attractions, and an annual weekend break in Llandudno.

Family and Caregiver Support:

• Recognising the crucial role of families and caregivers in stroke recovery, the club seeks to support these unsung heroes.
• Their challenges and resilience are acknowledged.

 The club’s activities contribute to stroke survivors’ well-being by:

Peer Support and Companionship:

• Connecting stroke survivors who often experience feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• Sharing stories, challenges, and triumphs provides emotional support and camaraderie.

Cognitive Stimulation:

• Engaging stroke survivors’ minds through brain games, puzzles, and discussions during club meetings helps with cognitive rehabilitation.

Emotional Well-Being:

• Social interactions boost mood, reduce anxiety, and depression.
• The club offers a safe space for survivors to express emotions without judgment.

Quality of Life Enhancement:

• Social activities provide a break from medical appointments and therapy sessions.
• Day trips, quizzes, and interesting talks bring joy and purpose to stroke survivors.

The club’s meetings and events offer opportunities to connect, share experiences, and provide support.

• We meet every other Wednesday from mid-February to early-December (2pm to 4pm) at Bethel Presbyterian Church, Garden Village. LL11 2SP. Exceptions regarding times and venue are given on the events page.

• Chairman: Keith Samuels – Phone 01978 840645
• Vice-chairman: Roy Griffiths – Phone 01244 570562
• Treasurer: Meriel Samuels – Phone 01978 840645
• Assistant Treasurer: Hilary Owens Phone 01978 351195
• Secretary: Gwyndaf Owen – Phone 01978 359373
• Alternatively email: wxmstrokeclub@gmail.com