Tino rangatiratanga – a rural Māori community’s response to stroke: ‘I’m an invalid but I’m not invalid’

This article presents a community-led kaupapa Māori research project involving Whakatōhea and neighbouring rohe (areas). This project arose from a moemoeā (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 Ōpōtiki 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 Māori stroke survivors and whānau (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 Māori stroke survivors and whānau could come to contribute what they can and take what they need. Māori stroke survivors could be employed to provide mentoring and run the centre.