Monday, May 11, 2009

The Internet and On-Line Communities (Tutorial Six)


The Stroke Network;
On-line Stroke Support and Information resources Always here - we are here for you whenever you need s, 24/7!



"Welcome to The Stroke Network web site. We are glad that you found us. We are an on line stroke support and information group designed to help everyone in the stroke family. Always here, our stroke support group is available 24/7. The purpose of our organization is to provide on line support for stroke survivors and caregivers of adult stroke."


This site offers resource information on stroke, members a chance to blog, find out information from others in similar situations, a monthly newsletter and guest spots. People contribute by asking questions, giving feedback or offering advice from personal experience.


This is a safe forum and questions can be asked without a member feeling embarrassed that the question is 'silly'. It provides research material, experts advice, personal experience from those who have had a stroke and caregivers. The members are all like minded and seem to be seeking hope from those that have recovered.


EXAMPLES OF POSTINGS

Posted On: Monday, May 04, 2009
" I really believe talking about what happened to us stroke survivors really helps. I'm a 3 year survivor as of May 5, 2009. I now speak to civic groups about stroke. What we can teach others is really giving others hope. Thank you for being here for all of us. "
Doug Combs


Posted On: Sunday, May 03, 2009
" I am a stroke survivor of two and a half years Dec. 10, 2006. I find Stroke net a good place to come and be with others like yourself. To find a cause and live up to it. You all are great. Thank you. "
Bruce Schwentker


Posted On: Monday, March 09, 2009
" I was stroked in 02/05. Stroke Network gave me friends who were in the same situation and hurdles I was experiencing. The volunteers have all been so pleasant and understanding. Everyone has made me feel we are one big family. "
Jean Kozelka


Posted On: Wednesday, January 14, 2009
" I love the Stroke Net. It makes me aware that I am not alone when I am struggling I know that I will always have Stroke Net members on my side. You know they say that a club is only as strong as the weakest link, well I can say without a doubt, that there is no weak on the link, you are so strong, and you are what keep me strong. It means al ot to me to be able to go on and chat with the members and to learn how they are coping . So keep on going let there always be a Stroke Net, you keep me safe and thankful. Thank you Stroke Net. "


Lenny HarrisonGlobal Television n/a


Posted On: Friday, January 02, 2009
"This site gives validation to my thoughts and feelings of my post stroke life. Thank you."
David Keogh




Ethical issues that may arise from this site is the fact that expert advice is available and although is states 'Complete the form below and select the department of your choice. All experts are licensed or board certified and will answer your questions for free. Any email questions answered by our Experts is not a substitute for medical care. In all cases you should follow-up with your physician. Please read our Medical Disclaimer.'

There may be those that do not follow up with their GP and try to implement change on their own.


The site is world wide and so offers advice from many areas the world over. This site lets people feel they are not alone and their struggles have been dealt with in the past and someone somewhere has that wee gem of advice that is going to get them through the next hurdle. The sense of community is grounded in people sharing personal details in order for others to move forward.

The community lacks the 'coffee group' feeling and being able to connect person to person. Groups that meet face to face have a bond beyond their 'disability', whatever it may be.



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