In April 2024 a stroke hit me out of the blue. Just three weeks previously I was gallivanting around India as free as a bird, a spirited, vital and very much agile 84-year-old. I was fit with a healthy diet, a non-smoker and everything to live for. I simply didn’t see it coming or have any understanding of the devastation it would cause myself, my wife and my family. But there we were - I was unable to swallow, eat, drink, walk or talk. I couldn’t do anything other than lie in a hospital bed feeling shell-shocked.

When stroke strikes, part of your brain shuts down. And so does a part of you. Life changes instantly and recovery is tough.

The determination I have had to have to fight and move forward after this catastrophic event has been bolstered so much by my wonderful family as well as the incredible support I have had from people just like you on Facebook (many of whom I’ve never even met) - you really have all blown me away.

The good news is that the brain can adapt. Specialist support, research and campaigning are only possible with the courage and determination of the stroke community. With more donations and support, we can rebuild even more lives.

My aim was not to manage 62 miles - even I realise that that target might be a little beyond my ability, but I am going to channel my inner “Captain Tom” and walk (either unaided or with the use of my walker on bad days) 100 lengths of my drive. It would have been nice to do this in better weather but I guess it’s just adding extra to the challenge!

If I can ask you for one more bit of support, however small a donation that may be, it will make all the difference to somebody… and unfortunately that “somebody” could be somebody you know and love.

Thank you and much love

Derrick (aka Kerry’s Dad!)