Hi. My husband had a relatively mild stroke nearly three weeks ago now. He's 54. He is progressing well but I can see many obvious symptoms remaining. We had a critical illness policy which covers stroke and if this would pay out it would make the next few months a lot easier. I have researched what we need to show the insurers but I am unsure how this is proved, and how they determine that the effects are permanent rather that temporary. He is suffering from what I would describe as lethargy (sleeping for long periods and constantly tired, slow and lacking motivation to do anything) but I'm not sure whether they would take my word for that or it there is a test? Also, he is complaining of his right side having difficulty swallowing - he says it's like he has to consciously make that side swallow. Again, is there a test for this? His speech is much better but still fairly slow and laboured with a slight lisp. As a solicitor he relied on his voice to do his job, and at the moment with its speed and the fact he is having word finding difficulties, I don't know if he'll be able to do that work again. His right side is still weak and 'tingly'. He tried a few golf holes the other day and on the basis of this his handicap had doubled to the maximum allowed! His co-ordination is also poor, which means he can't type except extremely laboriously (again essential for his job). He is also unable to write properly, with the writing coming out absolutely tiny. We've had to confiscate the television buttons too as he just can't manage to manipulate the buttons which was frustrating for him. Has anyone been in a similar situation - I don't want to get my hopes up for a payout, but I can't see him being able to return to his former career and can't really make any plans until I have more information. I hope you can help!
