​Local stars urge people of Manchester to Make May Purple

A host of Manchester stars have joined the Stroke Association to call on everyone in Manchester to sign up to Make May Purple in 2017.

During the month of May, the charity is urging everyone to go purple and raise vital funds, to show support for people who have been affected by stroke. TV favourites Julie Hesmondhalgh, Sally Lindsay, Shobna Gulati, Sherrie Hewson and Hayley Tamaddon have teamed up with BBC News presenter Sally Nugent to lend their support to the campaign.

Julie Hesmondhalgh, said: “Although it’s one of the UK’s biggest killers and leading causes of disability, far too many people don’t understand stroke or ever think it’ll happen to them. The Stroke Association has been at the forefront of stroke research that’s making a real and positive impact on people’s lives. This charity is helping stroke survivors and their families to deal with the emotional and practical impact of stroke.

“Having a stroke is bad enough. Being written off is worse. That’s why I am joining forces with the Stroke Association and urging you to get involved in Make May Purple for stroke. The charity is changing the world for people affected by stroke and needs our help. So join us, go purple, have fun and raise loads of money so that together we can conquer stroke.”

Sally Lindsay added: “We all need to change the way we think about stroke. I am helping the Stroke Association Make May Purple for stroke. Join me and let’s all go purple for this fantastic charity and raise much needed funds for their work. They invest in stroke research that is saving lives and support people to have a life after stroke.”

Chris Larkin, Regional Director at the Stroke Association in the North West, said: “It’s fantastic to have the support of Julie, Sally, Shobna, Sherrie, Hayley and Sally to raise awareness of Make May Purple. We hope their support will help us put the spotlight on stroke.

“This year we’re calling on the local community to get involved. Whether you choose to hold a bake sale, take part in an event or get sponsored to dye your hair, there are so many easy ways to show your support.

“Across the UK, more than a million people are rebuilding their lives after stroke. By supporting Make May Purple you can help us to make sure stroke gets the attention it deserves and to raise vital funds for innovative research into stroke care and treatment.”

To get involved with Make May Purple and help to change the story for stroke survivors, visit www.stroke.org.uk/makemaypurple