Inspiring Northampton man reveals how he overcame having a stroke

Andy Ibbott stars in the programme Employable Me that follows people with a disability advancing their careers or getting back into the workplace The programme starts next Monday on BBC2.Andy, who suffered a stroke during a hospital operation in 2011, started a BSc Sport and Exercise Science course with the University of Northampton in September this year.He wants to use his time studying the biomechanics, physiology and psychology that underpin sport and exercise to help sport enthusiasts get back in the game after suffering a disability.A keen fitness buff himself, Andy has taken part in the gruelling Marathon Des Sable, a marathon across the Sahara Desert.Andy said: “Dealing with the stroke was challenge enough, but I hope the message people take away from the programme is that becoming disabled is not the end of your story.“Since the stroke, I’ve got myself back on my feet and re-learnt how to talk, walked across deserts in Africa and I’ve even applied for a stint at Speakers Corner in London. It’s very exciting to feature in a BBC programme, but more adventures lie ahead.”Andy’s lecturer Tony Baross added: “Andy exemplifies all that is tenacious about the human spirit.“Despite suffering a major set-back, he has pushed himself through the recovery process and we are proud he is starting a new phase in his life with our Sport and Exercise Science course.”The programme will air on BBC2 at 9pm on Monday November 27.