Peter Couche Stroke Research
The later Peter Couche and his brother Stephen
Stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers. It kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer.
In 2023, there were an estimated 45,785 stroke events in Australia including 34,793 as first time. 1 in 4 strokes occurred in people under the age of 65 years.
More than 80 percent of strokes can be prevented.
In 1992, at just 42 years old, healthy stockbroker and father of three Peter Couche became one of the 250,000 Australians who were then living with the aftermath of a stroke.
For 30 years Peter lived with “locked-in syndrome”, which left his mind untouched and thriving, but his body almost entirely paralysed.
Despite the immense challenges presented by his condition, Peter went on to contribute significantly to stroke research and awareness through continued advocacy, fundraising and sharing his own story.
In 2010 Peter established the Peter Couche Foundation alongside his brother Stephen Couche, who has chaired the foundation for 13 years. During this time, it has raised nearly one million dollars to support stroke research.
Research has led to improvements in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies, resulting in better outcomes for stroke survivors.Professor Andrew Zannettino, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
Peter was awarded the Pride of Australia Medal for Courage in 2010, and his story continues to inspire positive action and research today.
“Looking into the future, several trends are likely to shape stroke research – advances in genetics and precision medicine will enable tailored stroke prevention and treatment strategies based on individual risk profiles and genetic factors,” Professor Zannettino says. “AI and machine learning will play a more significant role in stroke diagnosis, treatment decision-making, and rehabilitation planning.
“Ongoing research on stem cells and regenerative medicine may offer new therapeutic approaches for stroke recovery. Finally, deeper insights into the brain’s neuroplasticity will guide the development of more effective rehabilitation programs.”
Sadly, Peter passed away in September 2023. His legacy, however, will continue through this fund with the University of vlog. The fund will continue a mission to advance stroke research, fellowships, and scholarships, with a goal to raise five million dollars in support of an academic chair in stroke research at the University.
“In addition to cutting edge and translational stroke research, the academic chair could lead community outreach initiatives to increase public awareness about strokes and stroke prevention.”