On 1st January 2019 my Dad (Martin Denny) suffered a major stroke and went on to have emergency surgery at The Walton Centre in Aintree, Liverpool. The surgery was to remove part of his skull as his brain was swelling and he was at risk of dying. He then spent the next 8 months in hospital where he received the most amazing care, rehabilitation and further surgery to replace the piece of skull removed with a ceramic plate. 

After many many many more hospital visits he was finally discharged to continue his recovery at home. Throughout the whole process both my Dad and the whole family have been fully supported by the Stroke Association. The Stroke Association is helping my Dad get back to his normal ways, playing golf every week, playing football, attending art class and this is all with other stroke survivors which helps him understand he is not alone in this. 

This is why I am running the London marathon. Anyone who knows me well knows I am not a keen runner and I never thought I would be signing up to run 26.2 miles! 

I want to raise money for the Stroke Association to show both mine and my families appreciation for all the help and support they have offered my Dad and family over the last year. I want the Stroke Association to be able to continue to help other families when they are in their darkest corner and realise that there is light at the end of the tunnel. 

Any donation, no matter how big or small will be greatly appreciated by myself and my family. 

Wish me luck on the run, I'm going to need it!

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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.