So as most of you will know - I am not a runner. However, 15 months ago, my Dad could walk, and now he's permanently paralysed down the left hand side of his body due to a severe stroke. Thing's change and we learn to deal with it. At Christmas we struck up a deal, if I could run a marathon, Dad would walk unaided for a whole day… in our own eyes, these were equally unattainable and impossible goals. My major motivation is trying to prove to myself, to my friends around me but primarily to my Dad, that anything's possible. He’s facing one of the most daunting tasks of his life - aged 65, Dad is learning to walk again, with only half of his body co-operating and a mountain of side-effects brought on my major brain trauma... in comparison, all I have to do is keep both of my legs moving for 26.2miles…..humm!
I will be undertaking the exceptionally daunting task of completing the Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2009 along with 49,999 other competitors… having never run a race in my life (except for the odd egg and spoon or sack race in my prime!) I have little idea of what to expect! It’ll be made much easier knowing that I’ve got the support of friends family cheering me along every step of the way!Please dig deep in to your pockets and support a very worthy cause. The NI Chest, Heart and Stroke aims to improve the quality of life of the people of by preventing and alleviating chest, heart and stroke illnesses. Every year, an estimated 150,000 people in the have a stroke. A stroke is the third most common cause of death in the . It is also the leading cause of severe disability. More than 250,000 people live with disabilities caused by stroke. Northern Ireland Chest, Heart and Stroke is committed to caring for today and finding a cure for tomorrow
Your money will go towards care for today in the form of nursing staff, rehabilitation, providing equipment, support help-lines and providing grants for those on low incomes. Equally important is the forward-looking “cure for tomorrow” side of the charity which funds vital research in hospitals and universities and provides education within the community to prevent illness.
Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The NICHS Association will receive your money faster and, if you are a taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.
