This year, for my 25th birthday, I've decided to cycle from London to Amsterdam in aid of the Stroke Association.

As most of you know, I've worked for the Stroke Association for over two years now and have seen first-hand the devastating impact this can have.

When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down. And so does part of you. In the UK, this happens every five minutes without discrimination, affecting children, working age and the elderly. Some of you may have seen our recent TV advert, that challenges the misconceptions around stroke; you can watch it again here.

Life changes instantly and recovery is tough, but the brain can adapt. With the specialist support offered by the Stroke Association people can begin to rebuild their lives. 

With all this in mind, I've decided to take on the challenge to support their amazing work: 350 miles, over four days, through four countries and raising £2,000 to rebuild lives of those affected by stroke. 

I'm asking that, instead of presents, this year you could please consider making a donation to support this brilliant charity and my personal challenge. 

Your donations will make a huge difference:

• £7.50 could support a stroke survivor with access a local peer support group, who otherwise may be isolated and unable to connect with others in their local community
• £10 could allow a stroke survivor to attend an art therapy group, a setting in which communication and creativity are used to encourage both recovery and quality of life
• £80 could pay for a stroke survivor to attend a six week computer course, a vital communication tool to aid recovery and beyond
• £199 could pay for one hour of Helpline activity, helping the families of those affected by stroke
• £300 could allow a befriending volunteer to work with a stroke survivor for up to a year, perhaps accompanying them on a bus journey once a week until they feel confident enough to take the same journey on their own.

Any donation you can make will be hugely appreciated and help my little legs stay motivated through all those miles. 

Hannah x