My stroke

I had a stroke on 13 May 2015, I was 56. Prior to stroke I was active and fit, so it can happen to anyone! In my case, the reason was because my heart was not beating properly and blood clots formed. Having had a stressful day, my blood pressure went high, sending blood clot(s) to my brain. I could not walk, talk or use my hands. Through support from the Stroke Association, family and friends and a lot of determination, I have made a remarkable recovery and even ride my motorbike again! I attend the 'Sing Out for Stroke' singing group which helps me enormously with my speech. It also makes me feel happy.

The group(s)

The funding secured by the Stroke Association ran out and we all wanted/needed the group to continue as it helps so many of us stroke survivors. I have therefore taken on the role of Chairwoman of the Befrienders of the Stroke Singing Group (1066), nicknamed BOSS, and am working hard, with a great team, to raise funds to keep the singing group running. Both Sing Out for Stroke and BOSS are local groups attended by stroke survivors and their carers and we are of all ages. The Stroke Association still support us enormously with promotional items, courses, advice and essentially support from staff (Marie, Chris, Kim, Emma).

Indoor (gym) triathlon

With the amazing help from my friend Bob and Chris Cooley, I have been training to do an indoor triathlon at Battle Sports Centre, which is my regular gym. I have been working to Bob and Chris' training plan for me and will be doing the triathlon on 22 October 2017. I will be rowing (rowing machine) for 2.5 miles (4km), cycling (exercise bike) 9.3 miles (15km) and running (treadmill) 3 miles (5km). So I could do this challenge, I learnt to run again, which was no mean feat!

In memory of Chris Cooley

I now find myself rewriting this page as sadly Chris recently passed away (September 2017). Chris was inspirational, brave, funny, kind and very caring and she is, and will continue to be, sadly missed by all who know and love her. I dedicate this gym triathlon, and any future ones I do, to the memory of lovely Chris.