Story
I’m raising money for the Stroke Association in honour of someone incredibly special to me — my cherished friend for over 35 years, Gopi — and for every stroke survivor out there.
Twelve years ago, Gopi’s life changed in an instant. One moment she was a globe trotting executive assistant in her early 40s, an active, devoted mum, the life and soul of every party — and the next, everything stopped. A major stroke turned her world upside down. She survived against the odds, but this was honestly just the beginning of a long, unimaginably tough journey.
Since then, with the support of her husband and two beautiful daughters, she has rebuilt her life with a strength that still leaves me in awe. Gopi has now got limited use of her left arm and walks with the support of a stick, but she has never lost her spirit. Through frustration, pain, and endless adjustments, she has held on to her humour, has shown endless fortitude and more courage than I can put into words.
And Gopi isn’t the only person who inspires me. Another dear friend, Anna, also survived a stroke. Her recovery too is a reminder of how resilience shows up against adversity.
Watching both Gopi and Anna tackle their individual challenges has made me realise how much we take for granted, especially something as simple as putting one foot in front of the other.
So I’m doing this 50km (30 miles) walking challenge for Gopi, for Anna, and for all families whose lives have been changed irrevocably by a stroke. I expect the walk will take me between 10 to 12 hours.
I need to raise a minimum of £375 but if possible would love to exceed this target! The Stroke Association does incredible work supporting survivors and funding vital research. If you’re able to donate, no matter how small, it would mean the world.