Towards the end of last year fell running legend Joss Naylor MBE suffered a stroke, that left him requiring treatment and ongoing physiotherapy.  It was good to see Joss earlier this year at Buttermere fell race, where he kindly gave me permission to reference his story tand raise some much needed funds to support the work of the Stroke Association, for my attempt the Joss Naylor Challenge on 24 September 2022.  He even offered some helpful tips for undertaking the challenge!  

Regarded as a benchmark challenge for a more mature fell runner, the JNC is aimed at runners over 50,  with each age category having a specified time limit to complete the crossing.   The route starts in Pooley Bridge, Ullswater and crosses approximately 48 miles of mountain terrain to finish at Greendale Bridge in Wasdale, climbing 30 tops with around 17000 feet in total ascent.  As I am in the 50-54 year old age category at the moment, the aim is to complete the challenge in under 12 hours.

As well as completing the route, each contender is also tasked with raising a minimum of £100 for a charity of their choice.  

As a paramedic, I am aware of the work of Stroke Association into research and support for on going rehabilitation.  Stroke is the leading cause of adult disabilty in the UK.  Two thirds of people who survive a stroke find themselves with a disability.

For stroke survivors, research means everything for their recovery.  But in the UK, far less is spent per survivor on research into stroke than on research into any other health condition.  

The Stroke Association is the only organisation dedicated to funding research into ongoing rehabiliation that could help stroke survivors live fuller, happier lives.