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.

Fighting for a Cause to Support Stroke Survivors.

When I step into the ring for my Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) event, I won’t just be fighting for myself—I’ll be fighting for a cause that’s close to my heart. As an Army veteran, I know the value of resilience, determination, and looking out for my fellow servicemen and women. This time, however, my battle is not on the battlefield but in the squared circle, raising money for the Stroke Association in honour of a dear friend.

I am 58 years old, which places me in the same risk bracket as my friend. Stroke is something that affects many people, and most of us will know someone—whether a friend, family member, or colleague—who has experienced it. This fight is not just about raising money; it’s about raising awareness and reminding people of the importance of health and support networks for those affected.

My journey to this point started two years ago. After being medically discharged from the Army in 2017, I struggled with my physical and mental health. I had not addressed many issues stemming from my military service and was diagnosed with PTSD and Adjustment Disorder, among other conditions. I had let myself go to the point where I weighed 18 stone and was struggling both physically and mentally. I was heading in the wrong direction until a conversation with a colleague while I was attending an NHS Talking Therapies mental health workshop changed my perspective. That conversation led me to Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB), and from the moment I signed up, I haven’t looked back.

Through dedicated training and discipline, I joined the Combat Academy in Barnsley and transformed my life. I have since dropped to 13 stone, and my mental health has improved massively. This journey has been about more than just physical fitness—it’s about reclaiming my well-being and proving that it’s never too late to turn things around. I continue to work hard on both my physical and mental health every day.

My friend, a Royal Navy veteran who served as a submariner, suffered a life-changing stroke. His journey has been one of immense courage, adapting to new challenges and proving that strength comes in many forms. Seeing his resilience firsthand has inspired me to take action. I want to raise funds and awareness for the Stroke Association, a charity that provides vital support, rehabilitation, and advocacy for stroke survivors across the UK.

Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) is a unique challenge that brings together individuals from all walks of life to train for eight weeks before stepping into the ring for a charity boxing match. It’s about pushing physical and mental limits while making a real difference. The Stroke Association does incredible work helping stroke survivors reclaim their independence, and I want to contribute to their mission.

This fight is more than just a sporting event; it’s a symbol of support, camaraderie, and resilience. I’m calling on friends, family, and anyone who believes in supporting stroke survivors to join me in this journey. Whether by attending the event, donating, or simply sharing my story, every effort helps in making a tangible impact.

If you’d like to support my fundraising efforts, please visit and donate whatever you can. Every contribution, big or small, will go toward helping stroke survivors rebuild their lives. The funds raised won’t just help my friend—they will support countless other stroke survivors who need rehabilitation, therapy, and assistance to regain their independence and quality of life.

On fight night, I’ll be stepping into the ring with my friend’s battle in mind. He’s fought a tougher fight than I ever will, and this is my way of showing that no one faces these challenges alone.

Let’s fight for those who can’t. Let’s fight for stroke survivors.