I had a massive stroke in October 2019 which left me with severe physical and cognitive disabilities. I cannot talk or write, or always understand what is being said to me, because I have aphasia as well.

I've been lucky to be able to fund private physiotherapy for almost 3 years, and I've gone from being unable to take a single step to walking up to 40m with a stick. But this challenge will push me to my limit, so I'll need your support to reach that 100m finishing line!

What's been much harder is learning how to communicate again. Aphasia is the most awful condition as it deprives you of something that we all take for granted: being able to share your thoughts and hopes, have a joke with friends, or say good morning to the one you love. It makes you feel very isolated and depressed.

There is virtually no help given by the NHS for this condition and so it's only charities like Dyscover that throw you a lifeline. I still cannot speak or write, but Dyscover has taught me how to communicate by other means, like drawing, gesturing and using maps and pictures. 

Not only has Dyscover shown me new ways to communicate, but through the activities it organises, I've begun to enjoy my life again and I've made new friends with understanding people who are patient and kind to me. I can even hit a golf ball again (still badly though!).

Please enable Dyscover to continue its vital work. It helps hundreds of people already and it would like to help more. But it can't do that without money. Whether you can afford to give a lot or a little, your generosity will help many people regain their lives and happiness. 

Thanks for taking the time to read my story. Please do leave your email address for updates about my journey towards achieving this 100m walk. It's going to be tough!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.