I hate running. The furthest I've ever ran for a race before is 5km, but I've set myself a couple of challenges over the next year to try and raise some support for Stroke Association, first of these is a half marathon run through London. 

Many of you that know me know that one day out of the blue a few  years ago my mother suffered a stroke.  We all know strokes are bad, but seeing everything first hand was a huge eye opener for me, as well as making me realize how freakishly random a stroke can strike. My mum was 62 at the time and far from what I would have imagined to be a potential stroke victim: non smoker, very rare drinker, healthy eater and 2-3 times a day gym goer. One afternoon she was in her Pilates class, then a few hours later everything changed in her life. When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down, leaving you with a varying combination of mental and physical challenges for the future. 

Overnight mum's daily plans changed from scheduling gym classes, to having to relearn how to walk & eat again. Everything grinds to a sudden halt, loved ones become carers life's simple things become mountains to overcome. Mum has made huge progress in the past few years, showing a strength and determination we are all immensely proud of; quickly accepting that, for now at least, the gym has been replaced with physio and hydrotherapy. Mum has even completed a sponsored walk of her own in support of stroke awareness, so it's about time I got off my lazy butt and put some sweat in the hopes of helping someone else.

Life changes instantly and recovery is tough. But the brain can adapt. The NHS only offers support to a certain point, and short months after being discharged stroke victims and their families are largely left to fend for themselves. The Stroke Association offers specialist support, research and campaigning, all of which  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.

Thanks very much!