I'm running this marathon to raise funds for the Stroke association as stroke has had a great impact on our families lives, taking both of our grandparents.

First it was Alec, he suffered a serious stroke that tore Jeane’s and our lives upside down. He was strong enough to come around from the stroke but it left him with serious side affects although he never lost his personality or his humour even though he struggled some days. With Jeane and Alec being married for over 60 years, it was hard for her to see someone she loved so dearly become so restricted in his abilities, that wasn’t like him at all. In the end the stroke took him  from us in November 2014. 

Then there’s jeane. Good old gran. We did love winding her up! Having lost Alec she carried on determinedly even though after a few years her health began failing. In October 2019, she also had a serious stroke. This time, unlike Alec there was no coming round. It affected over half her brain and she was no longer the person we all knew and loved. We were by her bedside until she decided it was time to go see Alec. She was a stubborn person, with a strong personality and she fought till the end.

Seeing two people who so dearly touched all of our lives  suffer something that takes away the person you knew is horrible. For this reason, I am running a full marathon in April this year!! I only took up running towards the end of 2019 and have been gradually progressing through 5k’s to half marathons in a short amount of time. It’s been hard work and it’s not going to get any easier but I’m determined. With only 3 months left until the big day I’d like to ask you to support the charity that is close to our hearts and has affected many other families across the country. 

When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down. And so does a part of you. Life changes instantly and recovery is tough. But the brain can adapt. Our specialist support, research and campaigning are only possible with the courage and determination of the stroke community. With more donations and support from you, we can rebuild even more lives.