Major Stuart Neilson TD is a friend and colleague to many within 2nd Medical Brigade and the wider Defence Medical Services. Associated with the Army as a Cadet from his teen years and continuing as a Reservist his whole adult life, he has served in Hong Kong, the UK and supported multiple Joint and Combined operations overseas. On 6 Feb 23, Stuart began his day as normal, preparing to dial in to the Monday morning conference call - he did not make the call and was subsequently found collapsed at home in a critical condition. At NHS Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, he was found to have a substantial clot in an artery supplying critical areas of brain function and despite its removal, Stuart had suffered a stroke of extensive proportion. Many uncertain and turbulent weeks have followed where the statistics of recovery are unimaginably low. The stroke has left him quadriplegic, unable to speak or eat and with the further diagnosis of locked-in syndrome. The plan for recovery entirely depends on the challenging business of slow and steady physio, speech therapy, occupational therapy and the bedside vigil and attention of his wife Pauline. Now, six months on, Stuart remains totally aware and fully understanding of his situation. His only form of communication is with the use of his eyes and a letter chart. Despite all of this he can on occasion allow his sense of humour to come through and laugh out loud. Further improvements are slow to emerge. However, despite the enormous challenges that are ahead, he remains focussed and with the help of Pauline is staying the course of therapy and the knowledge that hope remains.

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. The Stroke Association's 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 help to rebuild even more lives.

As the NHS celebrate their 75th anniversary the aim of our challenge is for each friend, family member or colleague taking part is to undertake an activity completing 75 tasks – this could be completing 75 miles of walking, running, rowing, swimming. For those looking for a non-physical activity this could be knitting/crocheting 75 squares for neonatal blankets or selling 75 raffle tickets. Each unit member will share their commitment to complete their challenge during September and encourage friends and family to donate.

Each member of the team will aim to raise at least £75 each to support the Stroke Association to ensure they are there to support anyone else who goes through what our dear friend Stuart as well as others we know and love.