In a life-changing moment, Riona took her first steps on a parallel bar, defying the initial prognosis. With daily physiotherapy sessions and the support of her medical team, Riona worked tirelessly on her recovery. Her consultant was amazed at her progress, especially considering the severity of her condition when she first arrived at the hospital.
After four months of intense rehabilitation, Riona returned home. The process of navigating 16 steps still proved difficult, but her love for her children and her unyielding spirit motivated her to continue pushing forward.
During her rehabilitation, Riona met Keith Mason, a 35-year-old personal trainer. Their professional relationship soon blossomed into a personal one, and the couple has now been together for 11 months, blending their families and embracing their new life together.
Riona’s transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary. She completed two marathons with the assistance of her wheelchair and eventually gained the ability to walk without assistance. While she still uses her wheelchair for longer distances, Riona is grateful for the progress she’s made and the strength she has discovered within herself.
In a statement, Riona’s ex-husband clarified that he had filed for divorce the day before her stroke, and he has continued to support her and their children throughout the recovery process. Both Riona and her ex-husband have moved forward, building new chapters in their lives.
Riona’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the incredible strength that comes from love, perseverance, and hope.
Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in August 2017