Picnic Point resident recognised

Picnic Point’s Brian Arthur Beh has been selected as a Stroke Foundation 2020 Stroke Awards finalist in the Improving Life After Stroke Award category.
The 72-year-old, who is a retired management consultant and corporate communications executive, sustained a stroke in April 2016.
Fortunately, during his four-month stay in Bankstown Stroke Unit, Brian achieved good recovery outcomes and has since used his stroke experience as a catalyst to assist other survivors on their recovery journey.
He has also provided clinicians with insights and learnings to enhance their skills in delivering stroke treatment and care. His activities have included speaking to a range of health students and clinicians in hospitals and using social media to post helpful content for stroke survivors throughout their recovery.
“I am honoured to be recognised as an Improving Life After Stroke Award finalist,” Brian said.
“Prior to the stroke I engaged in what could only be described as ‘high-risk behaviours’, like smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, high levels of stress and total ignorance of my Blood Pressure (BP) and cholesterol levels. Now I have either eliminated or minimised these negative behaviours.
“My advice to other stroke survivors is to stay positive. Take advantage of the skills of the clinicians around you and set your mind to achieving your rehab plan.”
Stroke Foundation NSW State Manager Rhian Paton-Kelly applauded Brian for his incredible efforts.
“Individuals like Brian go above and beyond to improve the state of stroke in Australia,” Ms Paton-Kelly said.
“Each Stroke Awards finalist has a unique story to share – whether that is overcoming adversity, inventing creative ways to raise vital funds or awareness of stroke or advocating for improvement in stroke services at a state or national level.
“The awards are our way of saying thank you.”
The Improving Life After Stroke Award is sponsored by Australian Physiotherapy Association and is one of six categories in the 2020 Stroke Awards. The awards recognise the incredible individuals in our community who strive to make the future brighter for people impacted by stroke. These include the stroke survivors, carers, volunteers, fundraisers, health professionals and researchers who are relentless in their mission to enhance recovery and make a real difference.
Brian is one of five Improving Life After Stroke Award finalists. More than 60 people were nominated for the awards this year across six categories: Improving Life after Stroke, Creative, Courage, Fundraiser of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and President’s Achievement.
Awards winners will be announced on Tuesday, May 5.