​Stroke Association set to Make May Purple in Sheffield

The Stroke Association will take over the Sheffield Winter Garden on Tuesday 23 May, to Make May Purple for stroke.

Local residents can visit the Stroke Association from 10am - 3:30pm for a free blood pressure check, and find out more information about stroke. High blood pressure remains the single biggest risk factor for stroke, contributing to over half of strokes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The charity will be offering advice to visitors on how to keep their blood pressure under control.

Visitors can also take part in purple-themed activities, exercises and pose in a fun purple photo booth as part of the awareness event.

The Stroke Association is calling on everyone to sign up to Make May Purple in 2017. Across the UK, more than a million people are rebuilding their lives after stroke. During the month of May, the charity is encouraging everyone to go purple and raise vital funds, to show support for people who have been affected by stroke.

Maria DeGiorgio, Community Development and Partnerships Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “High blood pressure is often referred to as the silent killer because it doesn’t present any symptoms and many people have no idea their health may be at risk. A simple and painless test could prevent a devastating stroke.

“Getting your blood pressure checked is easy and quick. We hope to see many people from Sheffield at the Winter Garden; it’s a simple way to reducing your risk of having a stroke.”

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