Took my stroke in 1993, when I was only 28. I know some people suffer similarly, or worse, and I apologise. We are ALL dealing with this differently. Was a legal assistant, before all this. Have done many voluntary jobs and/or courses. Am now 55, and use a walker (was in a chair for 14 years). After falling again last night, and almost smashing my front teeth, was reminded again about how much I loathe being disabled. Realise I am lucky to have overcame total paralysis etc, but I'm still pining for my lost youth and marriage (which ended due to me becoming disabled). Met up with my childhood sweetheart, Billy, when I returned to Scotland but he sadly passed suddenly in 2013. Have become extremely independent, as much as I can be. Thankfully, have great friends and family. Please tell me I am not alone in thinking this way? Confidence took a bashing! Ta X