Press release -
Blackpool stroke survivor encourages budding bakers to Give a Hand and Bake
Stroke survivor and star baker from Blackpool, Jean Sherrington, is encouraging people across the North West to Give a Hand and Bake for the Stroke Association.
The charity’s latest fundraising initiative asks people to roll up their sleeves, grab a mixing bowl and bake to help make a difference for people affected by stroke. Give a Hand and Bake takes place this autumn from 24 – 30 October, when budding bakers will bake a difference all over the UK.
Jean, 71, has always loved baking and cooking. Despite having had two strokes, Jean continues to bake cakes and treats each week for family and friends, even baking for the local stroke unit to raise funds. Jean had her first stroke in 2011 which left her with right sided weakness and a second stroke in 2014 also further impacted her right side.
Jean said: “When I’m tired, my weakness is more noticeable and moving takes more effort. I’ve found that everyday tasks like baking have really helped to build up my strength. I love to bake and the fact that it improves my strength is a bonus. Turning out a scrumptious coffee and walnut cake, lovely cupcakes, a delicious coconut cream pie, and improving my mobility at the same time is great.
“I don’t have enough strength in my right side to whisk eggs and whip cream, so I use an electric beater. The secret for me is, if you can't follow the text book way to do something, then find a way that works for you and enjoy!”
Louise Lawless, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “Jean’s recovery is truly inspiring. There are over 157,370 stroke survivors living in the North West, who need support to rebuild their lives.
“This October, we’re looking for bakers to help raise some serious dough for people recovering from stroke. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned chef or a first time baker, all you’ll need is a generous dollop of enthusiasm and a hungry group of friends and you’ll have the perfect recipe for fundraising success.
“Whether you prefer to host an afternoon tea for your colleagues or create a fancy showstopper to wow your friends, a simple donation in return for a slice of cake will help to make a real difference. With your support during Give a Hand Week we can create a new era for stroke where every stroke survivor gets the treatment they need and the lifelong care they deserve.”
For more information on how you can bake a difference and to get a free pack, visit www.stroke.org.uk/giveahand.
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A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain. There are around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is one of the largest causes of disability. There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke.
Stroke Association is a charity. We believe in life after stroke and together we can conquer stroke. We work directly with stroke survivors and their families and carers, with health and social care professionals and with scientists and researchers. We campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can. We fund research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. The Stroke Helpline (0303 303 3100) provides information and support on stroke. More information can be found at www.stroke.org.uk
