The Stroke

Lance Clayton was your typical Aussie father of three and owner of a small business – Mello, a design and animation studio – until in early 2023 at the age of 35 he had a stroke. 

‘My lifestyle. I can’t sit still, or rest. It’s next to impossible to simply clear myself of the ambition to complete goals, tasks, or lists – mental or physical. I hike, I climb, I push further, skate faster, try harder, study longer – essentially whatever it takes. The allure may well be attributed to a desire to unlock the most potential in anything.’ 

However, it was not Lance’s incredible drive and busy lifestyle that caused his stroke. 

“This event occurred of its own accord at 1am on a Sunday morning. Ultimately, the probable cause was never something within my control. An unknown congenital hole in my heart that has journeyed with me from the very start.”

The value of friends

Throughout Lance’s recovery he has found a deeper connection with his family and friends.  

“Don’t bother trying to say ‘ok Google’ immediately after a stroke – trust me on this one. Conquer the kids books first and go from there.”

“Through the process I’ve been reminded, of the immense generosity around me – and more than anything – the value of friends.” 

“To individually credit each and every friend, family or client would be a list too long – but to all that offered support and understanding from the very first day until today, I am immeasurably thankful.” 

“More than ever, there is no distinction for me between friend, family, or client. My friends are my family, and great clients are your friends.”

Recovered and back to full speed 

Although fatigue initially held him back, Lance is back to full speed now and tackling new adventures. 

“I feel I’m continually improving even 1.5 years on in all aspects. Fatigue was huge for the first 6 months. Really tired all the time as my brain worked overtime, I suppose to make up for a few things that were a given originally.”

“And – through this whole event – unnervingly to those closest to me, it’s probably true to say it’s only driven me to go faster. Speed and intensity didn’t seem to be the problem. An unknown, unavoidable candidate was. So, I’ll likely keep pushing to grow and challenge myself at every front – but while doing that – make sure I give back whatever support I can along the way.”

“I’m heading to Tasmania in summer to hike the Overland Track for 6 days with my best friends, and still skating here and there, so pretty content to be feeling really close to what I was pre-stroke.”