​Warrington woman takes on Resolution Run for the Stroke Association for her mum

Charlotte Hickey, 26, from Warrington is taking on the Stroke Association’s 10km Resolution Run this Mother’s Day, to mark 10 years since her mother survived a life-changing stroke.

Charlotte’s mother, Diane, had a stroke at the age of 43, which left her with weakness in her left side and affected her speech.

Charlotte said: “Mum’s stroke affected her mobility and speech, as well as her ability to handle stressful situations. Despite all this, she’s so positive and every year, we get together and celebrate the anniversary of her stroke like a birthday. This year feels very special; we’re celebrating 10 years of life!”

Charlotte is now preparing to take on the Stroke Association’s 10km Resolution Run at Delamere Forest on Sunday 11 March, to coincide with Mother’s Day and raise vital funds for the charity.

Charlotte added: “I don’t run at all, so this will be a real challenge. I started training last week and can run 3.5km but I want to be able to run 10km, to mark 10 years since mum’s stroke. The Stroke Association supported my mum through the first years of her recovery, so it seemed fitting to raise vital funds to help other families get the support they need. I want to make my mum proud, like she makes me proud every day. She’ll be there cheering me on, along with the rest of our family.”

Jane Pinder, Community and Events Fundraiser 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 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 Charlotte is taking part. We’re looking forward to cheering her on alongside our other participants as she makes her 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 Runs will help the Stroke Association to fund vital research and support people affected by stroke in the North West.

To sponsor Charlotte, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/charlotterunsformumEntry 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.