In July 1992 I had a major stoke. 

Nothing will ever prepare you for that feeling of having a stroke at the age of 18. There are so many words I could use to describe how frightening it is. Waiting for your life to flash before your eyes. 

July 1992 is the day I became a stroke survivor.

For my 25th strokeaversary I took on the London Marathon. A year later I had a mini stroke and was then diagnosed with a hole in my heart which has now been fixed. 

So as a celebration of my 30th strokeaversary I will be taking on the Great North Run. This has been a bucket list race that Ive been dreaming of. 

Anyone who knows me will know this will be done for a cause that is very close to my heart and do so much for people like myself.  

When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down. And so does a part of you. Life changes instantly and recovery is tough. But the brain can adapt. Our specialist support, research and campaigning are only possible with the courage and determination of the stroke community. With more donations and support from you, we can rebuild even more lives.