Four years ago, my Mom suffered a life-changing stroke and spent 5 months in hospital/rehab after losing mobility in one side and barely being able to sit up. After receiving first class treatment from the NHS, to get her back on her feet, both from the hospitals and home visits for physio and occupational therapy, she was discharged and we were pointed in the direction of Dudley Stroke Association. Having joined their weekly exercise sessions for the past few years, Mom has gained so much confidence and strength, and has made huge progress with her walking. We are so proud of how far she has come, and she's determined to keep moving forward, even when it feels like such a struggle!

For this challenge, my wonderful, brave Mom is attempting to climb up and down the stairs 20 times to raise money for a cause very close to our hearts. This is a huge challenge, since she hates climbing stairs! Plus we're missing our regular exercise during lockdown, so this is a way of keeping active.

The Dudley Stroke group means more than exercise for us, it has been a lifeline to both of us after Mum had to stop working, and I left my job to take care of her. It is a truly supportive community, where we can socialise and meet others going through similar experiences, and feel less isolated from the world.

This June 2020, Dudley Stroke Association is trying to raise a total of £20,000 to help keep their much-needed services running.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you so much for reading mine and Mum's story, and we're so grateful for your support and any donations :) x