Sian Mulholland welcomes ‘life-changing’ stroke service after Ballymena mum shares her remarkable recovery
Ballymena woman Gemma O’Hara pictured with North Antrim MLA Sian Mulholland
Friday 09 October 2026
North Antrim MLA Sian Mulholland has welcomed the introduction of a new 24/7 stroke treatment service across Northern Ireland, following her efforts to highlight the experience of Ballymena mother of four Gemma O’Hara, whose recovery was transformed by the specialist procedure.
Gemma, 40, suffered a brain stem stroke in September 2025 and underwent a thrombectomy, a procedure that removes a blood clot to restore blood flow to the brain.
Describing the treatment as a “miracle”, Gemma has spoken about the crucial difference receiving rapid medical intervention made to her recovery, while Ms Mulholland has pressed for the procedure to be available around the clock.
The regional service, based at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital, began operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 14 September 2026, following a £5 million investment.
Ballymena woman’s experience highlights need for treatment
Gemma initially received treatment at Antrim Area Hospital before being transferred to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast for the specialist procedure.
In April, she visited Ms Mulholland’s constituency office in Ballymena alongside representatives from the Stroke Association to share her experience and support calls for round-the-clock access to thrombectomy.
They met again at Parliament Buildings in May, with Ms Mulholland subsequently writing to the Health Minister and tabling Assembly questions seeking updates on the expansion of the service.
Her experience helped illustrate why access to rapid stroke treatment can make a life-changing difference for patients and their families.
Stroke treatment now available around the clock
Northern Ireland is understood to be the first UK nation to provide round-the-clock thrombectomy access for its entire population.
Previously, the specialist procedure was available only during certain hours, meaning access could depend on when a patient suffered a stroke.
Thrombectomy involves doctors using a catheter to reach and remove a clot blocking blood flow to the brain. For eligible patients, rapid treatment can reduce the risk of permanent disability and improve the chances of recovery.
The expanded service means suitable patients can now be considered for the procedure at any time of day or night, including weekends.
Sian Mulholland welcomes major step forward
Welcoming the development, Ms Mulholland said:
“I’m delighted that the 24/7 thrombectomy service is now in place. Gemma’s story has stayed with me since she first came to my office. Hearing what she went through really brought home how much this treatment can mean to someone and their family.
“Until now, the service was only available during certain hours. Stroke doesn’t keep office hours, and access to treatment shouldn’t depend on whether someone has a stroke during the day or in the middle of the night.
“This is an important step forward for patients and families across Northern Ireland. I want to thank Gemma for sharing her experience and helping raise awareness of the importance of rapid stroke treatment, and recognise the healthcare professionals who make this service possible.”
Life-changing care for stroke patients
The £5 million expansion marks a significant development in Northern Ireland’s stroke services, removing previous restrictions on when eligible patients can receive this highly specialised treatment.
For patients such as Gemma, the difference timely intervention can make is deeply personal. Her experience, and her willingness to share it with Ms Mulholland and the Stroke Association, has helped put a human face on calls for improved access to stroke care.
With the service now operating around the clock, eligible patients across Northern Ireland have access to specialist treatment regardless of when a stroke occurs, although rapid recognition and emergency medical attention remain essential.
