Tino rangatiratanga - a rural Maori community's response to stroke: 'I'm an invalid but I'm not invalid'

This article presents a community-led kaupapa Maori research project involving Whakatohea and neighbouring rohe (areas). This project arose from a moemoea (dream or vision) of Tawhai, a stroke survivor who wanted to help fellow stroke survivors. We began with a survey of stroke survivors, community members and service providers in Opotiki and surrounding areas, investigating community knowledge of stroke, barriers and facilitators to recovery, and the availability and appropriateness of health services for stroke survivors in the area. The ultimate aim was to facilitate Maori stroke survivors and whanau (family) to support recent stroke survivors, and find funding to allow sustainable employment of stroke survivors in this capacity. Survey results depicted an isolated community with very poor knowledge of stroke and little access to stroke services. However, they also revealed a community that is determined to look after their own, improve outcomes, and has the support of local health and social service providers. Community-based discussions on the survey results resulted in a vision for He Whare Oranga Tonutanga - a place where Maori stroke survivors and whanau could come to contribute what they can and take what they need. Maori stroke survivors could be employed to provide mentoring and run the centre.