Surrey stroke survivor takes on Resolution Run for the Stroke Association

Alice Woodcock, 19, from Ash, is taking on the Stroke Association’s Resolution Run on Sunday 4 March, after surviving a stroke the age of 17.

Two years ago, Alice suddenly lost all feeling in the right side of her body, and lost the ability to speak.

Alice said: “Thankfully, my mum and dad were both home, and knew something wasn’t right when my face drooped on one side.

“My dad propped me up on my bed while my mum called for an ambulance. My parents knew I was having a stroke and kept the paramedics on route updated.”

Alice was taken to St George’s Hospital, and was the first person in the UK to receive thrombectomy, a pioneering stroke treatment that physically removes the clot. After receiving thrombectomy, Alice began to regain feeling in the right side of her body and could slowly speak again.

Alice’s stroke was caused by a blood clot triggered by taking the contraceptive pill. Alice also recently found out she has a patent foramen ovale (PFO), a trapdoor-like flap in her heart that can cause blood clots, which could also have contributed to her stroke. Alice underwent keyhole surgery to correct this in November 2017.

Alice said: “It was unbelievable. I count myself so lucky to have been able to receive such ground-breaking treatment.

“Before my stroke, I had plans to go to university to study art, but my right hand is a little weaker, and I struggle with coordination and the strength I once had.

“The past two years have been terrifying and really emotional. I’ve been through so much, but want to focus on the future now. I’m going to university in September, and as a result of my experiences as a stroke survivor, I want to study psychology to help others.

“When I tell people I’ve had a stroke, they can’t believe it. I wanted to take on this Resolution Run to support the Stroke Association so they can help more people like me, but to also celebrate my recovery. I’m really proud of how far I’ve come and can’t wait to help others in the future.”

Becky Beard, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “A Resolution Run is exactly that – a resolution for the New Year that counts. It's the ideal event for people in Brighton who want to do something fun together, while getting more active in 2018.

“Every five minutes in the UK, someone’s life is turned upside down by stroke. By signing up to a Resolution Run, each runner will help us do so much more to support stroke survivors and their families as they rebuild their lives. We’re thrilled Alice is taking part. We’re looking forward to cheering her on alongside our other participants as she makes their way through the park.”

At least half of strokes could be prevented if people made simple lifestyle changes, such as keeping blood pressure under control, eating healthily and taking regular exercise. The money raised through the Resolution Run in Brighton will help the Stroke Association to fund vital research and support people affected by stroke in the South East.

Entry fee is just £16. All runners receive a technical running t-shirt and medal. For more information about entering or volunteering at the Resolution Run, visit http://www.stroke.org.uk/resolution, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.