Although I spent most of my school days hiding in the toilets so I didnt have to do athletics... I have decided to challenge myself to run a half marathon in October. 

In January, my grandpa passed away and I wanted to do something to honour his memory. He was the most inspirational and amazing man to me as I was growing up. A few years ago he had a stroke and I watched the effects take hold on his body and mind over a few hours. Despite this, he made the most wonderful recovery with the help and support of amazing professionals, and gradually regained his dexterity and speech, which were most badly affected. 

A mixture of determination, hard work (and a hint of stubborness) allowed him to overcome the stroke, stand up and give a speech at his 80th birthday last year. I was so proud of him, and it reinforced my belief in all that he stood for. I hope I can emulate just some of these characteristics in everything I do, and this race is my way of trying to prove that.

So, I am going to run 21km in my neon trainers... knowing my grandpa will be looking down on me, and probably hoping the dodgy knees I inherited from him dont give way. With a bit of determination and support from you, I won't let them. 

So, if you've managed to get this far, and believe I can do it, please donate any amount you can afford to a worthy cause that works with stroke victims and gives them the chance of living a fulfilled life even after a stroke. I appreciate every extra day I had with my grandpa after his stroke, and want others to have the same opportunity with their loved ones too. 

Victoria

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