Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Following a stroke, heart attack and aneurysm, all within 12 hours, at the age of just 50, my husband became very depressed at being unable to be the previously active, sporty and competitive person he once was.  He struggled to find a purpose, having once travelled the world, loving wildlife in every corner of the earth, and loving life in general.  He reached rock bottom at one point and it was heart-breaking to see what severe limitations life placed on him, through no fault of his own.

Then we were introduced to Headway Southampton, and life took a huge turn - upwards!  The staff there are amazing.  Their care and dedication, not to mention patience with their clients, is fantastic and the range of activities they offer is terrific, and tailored towards the abilities of their clients too.  Whilst there, John enjoyed sports, cafe and museum visits and also even horse-riding!  All within a safe environment with enthusiastic staff who gave John back his self esteem.  He became interested in life again, and hugely looked forward to every one of the days he spent with Headway.  This also had a knock-on effect on me and his family and friends - it was fabulous to see much of the old fun-loving John enjoying his life again.

Sadly, John died a year and a half ago, but it is so important to keep this hard-working, forward-looking, positive-thinking charity Headway Southampton going for the many others who attend.  You just never know when you may be affected by a similar situation (John went to work healthy on the morning before his life-changing illnesses...) - 

So please folks, as I am risking my neck and limbs, could you all, from the safety of your chairs, donate to this wonderful cause!

Many thanks indeed,

Merle Hattersley

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.