A singer songwriter from the Highlands has vowed to be well enough to sing again after a stroke that left him paralysed.
Six weeks ago Tony Romaine, who is known around the pub circuit in Inverness, had a stroke after feeling only slightly unwell.
Unable to move his fingers just a month ago, the 47-year-old is now determined to get back to playing his guitar, and singing his music.
Just before his stroke in August he had taken on the role of being the resident musician at the Castle Tavern in Inverness.
But in career spanning three decades he has also played across the Highlands, including at the Tooth and Claw and at the Captain’s Table in Findhorn, Moray.
‘Trapped inside my body and utterly terrified’
Friends, supporters and regular attendees at his performances have donated about £800 to a fundraising campaign to help the singer in his recovery.
Speaking from hospital, Mr Romaine said: “It is six weeks since I was admitted to hospital, although it seems to feel a lot longer.
“The day it happened, I didn’t feel quite right but didn’t think much of it. How on earth would anyone know what a stroke feels like?
He continued: “I went to sleep on the couch, so I wouldn’t bother my wife Lynn. After a couple of hours I realised I couldn’t move, or call for help.
“My speech was gone completely. I was trapped inside my body and utterly terrified.
“The only thing I could think to do was to text Lynn, although that took a couple of hours with one hand. Lynn came down and saw that I was basically paralysed.”
Once in hospital, Mr Romaine could only communicate yes and no answers by blinking his eyes.
While he can now speak again, his voice is still weak. So, for the time being it is unlikely that he will be able to sing.
Health changes
Having been a smoker before his stroke, Mr Romaine says he doesn’t plan to take up the habit again.
He has also sworn off alcohol for life, after giving up six years ago.
He said: “I’ve had a few sleepless nights, which in turn affected my mood and left me feeling quite down while I have been in hospital. I’m determined to look on the bright side.
“I was completely paralysed in my hand and was thrilled to have some small movements since then. I think listening to John Lennon helps.
“I can’t wait to see how the movements are in another five weeks or so. Until then I’m eternally grateful for these small changes and for everyone’s continued support.”
Thanking those who have helped him, Mr Romaine added: “I am eternally grateful for all the support I have had from my family, friends and the hospital staff. Rehab is going well and things are getting less scary everyday.
“The one thing I know is that I am going to sing and play again.”
He said: “Before the stroke I was working on an idea of a cover version of the song She Talks to Angels by the Black Crowes, with Jesse Zeeman of Canada.
“I had sent him some rough recordings as an idea but never had any intention of anyone hearing these rough tracks.
“As I obviously can’t re-record these due to the stroke, Jesse is trying to make these recordings into a listenable production.
“I might even try to make a video while in hospital. The song itself will probably only be released on Soundcloud – not on my Spotify – hopefully this will be ready within the next few weeks.”
‘I will play again’
After being unable to swallow, Mr Romaine is now enjoying hospital food again – hoping to get back to solid food sooner rather than later.
He added: “Physio seems to be going well and as much as I can’t see any movement in my left leg I have been told by the therapists that they can feel muscles trying to work so something is starting to wake up.
“The hard skin on my fingers from years of guitar playing is still there but I don’t think it will last much longer, can’t wait to be able to build it up again.
“One day I’m determined to be able to move my left side and stand unaided while I play a song.”
Friends of Mr Romaine have set up a online fundraising campaign to help meet his costs as he recovers.
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