​Bamber Bridge stroke survivor raises more than £4,000

A stroke survivor from Bamber Bridge has raised more than £4,160 for the Stroke Association, after the charity supported him during his recovery.

Former National Grid Commercial Manager, Alan Taylor, 53, had a stroke in June 2014, as well as a bleed on the brain. Alan’s stroke affected his balance, mobility and his memory.

Alan said: “With determination I can now walk and move reasonably well, but I am still a totally different person compared to who I was before my stroke. I don’t have the same sense of humour and struggle with everyday tasks. I have several gaps in my memory and often get mistaken, especially with dates.

“I’ve had lots of support from my wife, daughter, family and friends as well as support from the Stroke Association team in Preston. They really helped me to move forward and inspired me to raise vital funds. I knew all about strokes, but only realised that they can happen at any age after I had a stroke myself. I was reasonably fit and never smoked, so I never thought a stroke could happen to me. I want to raise awareness that they can happen to anyone at any time.”

Prior to his stroke, Alan had been building a bar in his garden. After months of recuperating he continued the project and to celebrate, held a garden party for 150 family and friends to raise money for the Stroke Association. He organised a raffle, tombola, games and activities, along with a cake stall and entertainment to encourage donations.

Alan added: “Afterwards I was shattered, but it was worth it for the amount raised and the fun we had. The day itself raised £2,165 and National Grid donated a further £2,000. I had lots of support from friends, family and local businesses, for which I’m really grateful. I was determined to finish this project and raise funds for the Stroke Association, so I’m thrilled with the final result.”

Mikaela Leape, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 152,000 strokes in the UK each year, it’s vital we have people like Alan to help raise vital funds. We’re incredibly grateful to Alan for raising such an amazing amount for the Stroke Association; the money will go a long way in helping to support people who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

The Stroke Association provides a Life After Stroke Service in Central Lancashire, in partnership with by Chorley and South Ribble and Greater Preston Clinical Commissioning Groups. For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk