Press release -
Beaulieu team take on Stroke Association Resolution Run to support Anna
A team of six dubbed as ‘Anna’s Angels’ took part in the Stroke Association’s Resolution Run on Sunday 17 February at the Royal Victoria Country Park, to support their friend who had a stroke last year.
Anna Lawrence, 50, from Beaulieu, had a stroke last July which left her with a communication difficulty called aphasia.
Chris Morley, Anna’s fiancé said: “Anna is a true inspiration to us all. She is constantly exercising her brain to retrain it and is so self-motivated. The stroke has had such an effect on Anna’s confidence, both socially and at home, yet she still strives to improve herself every day. We have been so lucky to have such great support from our family and friends.
“The Stroke Association were there for Anna and her family too. The support they offer to local stroke survivors is vital. We wanted to do something to recognise Anna’s determination and recovery, but also to thank the charity that has supported her.
“Thankfully the sun made an appearance on the day which made the 10K run a little better for us! It was a lovely day and we all felt so proud when we hit the finish line.”
Chloe Braidford, Regional Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “A Resolution Run is exactly that – a resolution for the New Year that counts. In the UK there are around 100,000 strokes every year. Our latest research (i) shows that by training and taking part in a Resolution Run, you are helping to lower your stroke risk.
“The funds raised by each runner means we can reach out to more stroke survivors and their families to offer the support that they may need to rebuild their lives. On behalf of the thousands of stroke survivors and their loved ones that we support every year, we want to say a huge thank you to Anna’s Angel’s.”
Research from the charity shows that many strokes could be prevented if people made some simple lifestyle changes. Introducing physical activity into your routine is just one aspect of a healthier lifestyle required to reduce your risk of stroke. Monitoring (and managing) your blood pressure, eating a more balanced diet and stopping smoking can all significantly reduce your stroke risk.
Last year participants raised over £633,000 for the Stroke Association This year the charity hopes to raise over £850,000 to continue supporting stroke survivors and their families throughout the UK.
For more information about entering or volunteering at the Resolution Run, visit www.resolutionrun.org.uk email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.