Ok so...here we go. I'm never one to take things lying down. Nor one to shy from a challenge. But in Nov. 2nd 2018 I suffered an Ischemic stroke, not once, or twice but 3 blockages causing havoc in my tiny mind. I lost control of my left arm and left side of my face in what became the most frightening moments of my life. After of course, downplaying this to family and being in A&E I found myself in hospital  for 5 days seeing unimaginable ups and downs. I can honestly say I have never been so scared. So scared I wouldn't see my kids grow up, tell my loved ones how I felt etc. These are just a sample of the rollercoaster of emotions that people can feel after a stroke. 

I was lucky, I had help, support and love from a wonderful family, team mates in flyball and friends. This allowed me to put everything into my recovery in the last 18 months or so.  I still have affects that will be there long term, I still can't believe some days it happened.  However I am lucky and blessed. Many have long and hard journeys ahead that they need support with, some journey's are cut short and this is heartbreaking for all concerned. 

Dusty De Sainte Croix touched many lives through his teaching and his fencing. He was loved and respected widely and I can't believe he has been taken from this world so suddenly. This has left a huge hole in his family's life and they are the people I will run for the most. I loved and respected Dusty and love dearly his family and the values he stood for.  

So many people have had their lives touched by Stroke. So Nicky Collen and Bawden family, Roy Hiscock and the Hiscock family, Clan De Sainte Croix. I run for you all and will be thinking of you all <3 

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.

This started as a marathon journey in 2019….2020 hit and it was cancelled, 2021 followed. I’ve started training about 4 times and by the time covid came for me in Feb 2022 my lungs had just about had it! I have commuted down to the 10Km as I think I can manage that one now!