Hi, 

Strokes have been a part of my family history with both my Grandad and Pop suffering from them.

Pop (My Dads Father) was left paralised down his left side after suffering from a Stroke in his mid 40's, whilst my Grandad Stan (Mums Father) suffered from Strokes later on in his life, primarily effecting his speech.  

More recently my Dad had a Stroke and is here today A. because of his determination to survive, but B. because of the time and money that is invested by the Stroke Assocation into finding new drugs and ways to help combat the effects of Stroke.

The trial drug my Dad recieved saved his life and has enabled him to return to a normal but somewhat steadier lifestyle. However only 13% of people who took this trial drug were as lucky as my father and so there is clearly more work and research to be done to make sure there is a drug that means 100% of people can recover from a Stroke and regain a good quality of life. 

With this in mind my upcoming Cycle Ride on the 21st October around the South Downs will be dedicated to raising money for the Stroke Association so to ensure they can continue to help people effected by Strokes. 

I know this ride is going to be tough, it's got a lot of hills to climb and at 76 miles will be the longest distance i've ever ridden in one journey, I also have no companion on this ride to encourage or drive me on when the miles get harder and harder (unless someone wants to join me). However knowing that each mile I turn my pedals is helping the the Stroke Association continue its work i'm sure will be the voice inside my head I need when my legs are sore and want to stop turning the pedals. 

I know times are tough at the moment but anything donated would be massively appreciated and will help inspire me along 76 hard miles!!

Thanks!!

Mike