For those about to rock, we salute you! 21 August 2025 Wilma McKenzie isn’t letting aphasia stop her from doing what she wants. The 87–year old from Penicuik was left with the communication disorder after a stroke earlier this year. Through support from Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, the grandmother has come on leaps and bounds in her recovery. Now she’s aiming to accompany her son, Scott, for a night with rock and roll band AC/DC at Murrayfield tonight to show that aphasia doesn’t have to hold you back in life. Wilma said: “I’ve always said a little AC/DC would never hurt anybody! “I’m into rock and roll music and I was listening to Planet Rock on the radio when Scott told me that AC/DC were playing Murrayfield. I texted him saying I’d treat him if he could get tickets. “I’ve said even if they have to wheel or carry me into Murrayfield, I’ll be there to see them. I’m going! “I just don’t want aphasia to stop me doing things I want to do. I know it’s different for others, but I won’t allow myself to lie down to it.” Wilma was taken to hospital in February after her face drooped and she had trouble speaking. She spent a few days there. Wilma recalled: “I didn’t really know anything about it. “I didn’t have any twists or turns or anything like that, I just couldn’t speak. I try hard and sometimes I’m fine and other times I can struggle. That’s the only lasting impact. “I didn’t have any issues with my balance after the stroke it was just my speech. It’s just one of those things; everybody is different after a stroke.” Support from stroke nurse Suzy CHSS stroke nurse Suzy Thomson visited Wilma, who has macular degeneration, giving her support and advice. Suzy said: “As Wilma’s Stroke Nurse, I offered support and advice about ongoing symptoms and stroke prevention, monitored her blood pressure and liaised with community colleagues as Wilma was keen to get started and do everything she could to aid her recovery. “Wilma is a very social lady but had lost confidence following her stroke. On my last home visit Wilma said she was starting to go out again to see friends and had been back to her club, the Evergreens, which was lovely to hear. “Even when she was finding it very challenging to communicate, Wilma’s strength of character and sense of humour were evident, and I am very much looking forward to hearing all about the AC/DC gig when I see her for her six-month review.” Wilma said: “I still stutter from time to time, but my aphasia has improved. And, I suppose, I’m old! “I go to the library, and I get audio books now and I enjoy them. It’s about finding ways to do some things differently. “But I feel my speech has improved because I just keep talking! I think that’s how I’ve been able to get there. You can’t let aphasia stop you, but you have to put the work in for rehabilitation. I’ve received support along the way, and that’s a big help.” If you’re living with the effects of a chest, heart or stroke condition or Long Covid and are looking for advice and information, please contact Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0899. You can also text ADVICE to 66777 or email adviceline@chss.org.uk.