Jack's story

Jack Tane first experienced stroke in 2018.

Throughout his recovery, he maintained a positive attitude, even teaching himself how to play the saxophone. He attended Stroke Aotearoa New Zealand's "Life After Stroke" seminars to share his story and inspire other stroke survivors to never give up.

But Jack experienced another stroke in 2022, with far more devastating effects.

As well as developing hemiparesis (muscle weakness on one side of the body) that affected his ability to live independently, Jack also lost his two front teeth.

The loss of his teeth meant that he had to completely change his diet, due to the difficulty of eating. But it affected more than just his diet.

Jack felt too self-conscious to perform for others anymore.

Jack was a talented musician who loved bringing joy to others through music. Losing his teeth also meant a loss of identity.

But luckily, Jack had support in his corner. His local Stroke Aotearoa Community Stroke Navigator worked alongside Jack to help him through his recovery.

In 2023, she supported his application to the Northland Stroke Community Assistance Fund.

This fund managed by Stroke Aotearoa that helps stroke survivors in Northland through funding activities or equipment needed as a result of a stroke.

Jack's application was approved.

And even though his teeth haven’t been replaced yet, his smile is back – as is his passion for performing and bringing joy to others.