SN ART The new stroke treatment that's changing lives
Half a million Australians are living with the devastating consequences of stroke but an experimental treatment in the US is giving some sufferers immediate and long-term relief.
However, the drug providing these seemingly miraculous recoveries, is not being clinically trialled yet.
Four decades since Johnny 'The Bomber' Peard was at his peak as a Rugby League star, he is now crippled by the effects of a near-fatal stroke.
He and mum of five Kylie have travelled to the US to try the experimental drug etanercept.
To treat the effects of stroke, etanercept is injected into the in the back of the neck patients are then tipped upside-down for about five minutes so the drug can go directly and quickly into the brain.
Dr Nancy Kim says she has been administering this drug on a trial basis and seen incredible results.
"There hasnt been anything that has happened to really make anyone have any fear of this injection but we werent able to get approval for a trial, so as you can imagine, it is difficult."
After being injected both the patients experienced benefits within minutes.
"I feel like someones just flicked a light bulb and I dont feel tired Ive always had this lethargic feeling constantly and I dont feel it at all now," Kylie told Sunday Night's Chris Bath.
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The new stroke treatment that's changing lives