Content note: This episode includes frank discussion of suicide and suicidal feelings.
If you’re struggling, you are not alone. Support is available:
Outside the UK? Find local support via the International Association for Suicide Prevention: iasp.info/resources/Crisis_Centres or Befrienders Worldwide: befrienders.org
In this moving episode of Riding Through Aphasia, Ed Nell talks with Andy Ibbott about the people and moments that helped him rebuild life after a stroke. Andy reflects on the surgeons who saved him, the brutal early months with aphasia, the near-collapse of his mental health, and the slow, stubborn climb back, one short walk at a time. He shares the pivotal role of close friends like Rob and Chris, and the unforgettable London Marathon story that tested them all. Above all, Andy’s message is clear: others can help, but the decision to keep going must come from within.
Key Takeaways
Ten Days in ICU, Then the Long Road: After 10 days in intensive care and an early, too-ambitious trip to France, recovery faltered before it gathered momentum back in the UK.
Hitting Bottom and Choosing Life: As visits dwindled and isolation bit, Andy reached suicidal lows before reframing recovery as a series of small, winnable challenges, like walking to the end of the road and back.
Hard Truth for Loved Ones: Andy’s advice to families is compassionate but firm: support helps, but recovery ultimately depends on the person doing the work, processing advice and acting on it.
A Stark Warning: Andy says many survivors don’t make it through the first two years after stroke, stressing the urgency of honest conversation about mental health and suicide risk.
Best Moments
“They decided to cut… By cutting it, he will have a stroke… But it will come once he’s cut it.”
“They gave me a 5% chance to live… I came round the second day, up to 20%.”
“People were coming less and less… The spiral was going down… I nearly committed suicide.”
“Nobody can help you, only you. Others can support, but it’s down to you to get the result.”
About Andy Ibbott
Andy Ibbott is a renowned motorcycle journalist, former Managing Director of the California Superbike School, and coach to world-class riders, including Valentino Rossi. After a life-changing stroke in 2011, he overcame immense challenges, regaining mobility and taking on extreme endurance events like the Marathon des Sables. A passionate advocate for brain injury recovery, Andy continues coaching in British Superbikes and supports Brain Research UK. His book Performance Riding Techniques remains a go-to guide for motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.
Connect with Andy: https://andyibbott.co.uk/
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