This life changing event totally turned my world on its head, physically I have been fortunate to have recovered extremely well with only a slight loss of use to my dominant left hand and occasionally my speech is affected, mentally it has been more difficult. This negative event has made me re-evaluate my health completely and I have lost 4 stone in weight and through completing the Couch to 5K program I now run 3-4 times a week and love it!

Before my stroke I had absolutely no idea that stroke affects so many people and especially that it affects so many young people, including infants. I follow many of these who have chosen to make their stories public by means of Instagram, or their families have and I am completely in awe of the strength and determination of these young people and their families. Stroke can be so devastating to victims and their families, I have been very fortunate so I want to try and do something to help this charity continue their work in supporting young stroke survivors and their families.

I have therefore signed up to run the Exe Estuary Marathon on 19th July 2020 (yes thats 26 miles) and in doing so am hoping to raise money in aid of the “Different Strokes” charity. - Different Strokes