I’m running the Yorkshire Marathon to support the Stroke Association because stroke changed my life in ways I never expected.

At just 25 years old, I experienced my first transient ischaemic attack (TIA). I developed a severe headache, became dizzy, collapsed, lost my vision, and experienced weakness down the left side of my body. Despite these being classic stroke symptoms, I was told it was related to my mental health.

Over the next six years, I suffered three more TIAs, all while trying to carry on with life—becoming a wife, a mum, and continuing to work. Deep down, I knew something wasn’t right, but it wasn’t until I was finally referred to a stroke team that I got the answers I’d been searching for.

Tests revealed I had a large patent foramen ovale (PFO), a hole in my heart that had allowed blood clots to travel to my brain and cause my TIAs. In October 2025, I underwent life-changing heart surgery to close it.

Recovery wasn’t easy, but it gave me a second chance.

Today, I’m doing things I never thought I’d be able to do. I’ve completed a half marathon and an ultramarathon, and now I’m taking on the Yorkshire Marathon.

I’m running for everyone whose stroke symptoms have been overlooked, for those still searching for answers, and for every stroke survivor rebuilding their life. I’m also running to raise awareness that stroke can happen at any age.

The Stroke Association provides invaluable support to stroke survivors and their families, helping people rebuild their lives after stroke. By donating, you’re helping fund vital services, research, and support for people when they need it most.

Every mile I run is a reminder of how far I’ve come and how fortunate I am to have been given another chance.

Thank you so much for your support. Together, we can raise awareness, support stroke survivors, and remind people to trust their bodies, keep asking questions, and never give up.