So I am running the GNR again and this time it's for someone who was a very important part of my life, my Uncle Laurie.

Uncle Laurie was my Dad's first cousin and as they were best friends, he was in my life from day one.  He got me / helped me with my first car, my first suit, first job interview, first house, first painting, first case of port, first (very fast) boy racer car... in fact a lot of firsts!!!   Uncle and his wife Gwinnie have always made me part of their family. 

I have so many happy memories with my uncle, Auntie Gwinnie and their children Victoria and Simon... some of the most memorable were at Dartmouth and Stoke Gabriel on summer holidays and uncle’s  prized Jags and boats.... and later when I served in the Royal Navy.  

Uncle Laurie's nickname for me was "useless" and after I joined the Navy he coined a second nickname for me, namely "Captain Cod!"  In fact during the Gulf Way he sent me a "bluey" titled "Captain Cod, HMS Brecon, Somewhere in the Gulf!" ... and it got to me!!

Uncle Laurie came out to sea a few times with me for "fathers day" when I served on HMS Scylla and they were such great memories..... he would have everyone in stitches during his few days on board!  He particularly enjoyed sitting in the Captain's chair watching me when I was Officer of the Watch on the Bridge and would tell everyone about it for ever!

Early in 2016 I was lucky to be able to spend a long weekend with Uncle Laurie whilst my aunt was away skiing.  We spent a weekend reminiscing.... and in September I joined the whole family to celebrate his 80th birthday.

Uncle had suffered with strokes for a while and shortly after his 80th birthday he suffered a massive stroke that was to be his last.  He was helped enormously by the stroke unit at The West Suffolk Hospital. 

Sadly I never got to say goodbye but the memories are there for ever.

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. The Stroke Association's specialist support, research and campaigning are only possible with the courage and determination of the stroke community. With more donations and support from you, they can rebuild even more lives.

So I am hoping you will help me in supporting this amazing charity to help with all the great work they do.  Thank you.

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