Stroke is the third largest cause of death in the UK. 25% of Strokes happen to those under the age of 65. No matter how healthy and fit you are a stroke can happen to anyone. 

At 57 my mum suffered a stroke whilst sitting on the sofa one evening having a cup of tea with my dad. Fortunately for my mum and as a result of my dad's awareness of the Act F.A.S.T. campaign, he immediately recognised the signs of a stroke and called for an ambulance. Receiving immediate medical attention saved her, but her life after a stroke continues to be impacted by her medical condition. The stroke affected the functionalities of her brain, her speech, language, memory and in turn her confidence. A few years on and my mum is still recovering and continues to be dependent on bi-weekly medical visits and reliant on 11 tablets a day, in particular blood-thinning medications to help reduce the risk of a second stroke. 

The Challenge & Fundraising:

Being impartial to a good few glasses of prosecco, generally loving food and only ever managing to run 10k, running 26.2miles (42k) will certainly be a challenge. Hopefully, my training efforts over the next few months will get me over the finish line and help raise awareness of the impact and prevention of strokes and raise money and support for Stroke Association.

Your donations will support Stroke Association's mission to prevent strokes and achieve life after stroke through providing services, campaigning, education and research.

How donations are spent:

• £100 buys a pulse monitor used in cardiovascular rehabilitation programme for stroke patients.
• £168 buys a month’s supply of a drug tested for use in reducing brain damage after stroke.
  
• £310 allows us to provide information to up to 50 families affected by stroke.
  

Thank you for your support and donations. I hope to see as many of you as possible on the 22nd April 2018 as I embark this amazing challenge for such a fantastic charity.