​Warrington woman takes on Total Warrior for Stroke Association

Abigail Nicholson, 23, from Culcheth, is taking on the Total Warrior 10k on Saturday 05 August to raise funds for the Stroke Association, after her grandad had a life-changing stroke.

Abigail’s grandad, Eric Taylor, had a severe stroke in 2014, which left him without the use of his left side, as well as sight loss and hearing problems.

Abigail said: “My grandma passed away in May 2014 and it was around three weeks later that my grandad had his stroke. As his stroke was so severe, he is now unable to walk and uses a wheelchair.”

Abigail is planning to take on the gruelling Total Warrior 10k obstacle race in the Lake District. Taking on, rivers, mud, woodland and rugged Lake District terrain, Abigail will have to overcome 25 – 30 punishing Total Warrior obstacles over the 10k course.

Abigail added: “Considering I used to get out of breath running up the stairs, I think my training is going well. I can now run four miles, and I even took part in a 14 mile canal relay last week, which was hard but manageable as it was broken up into shorter distances.

“I’ve chosen to raise money for the Stroke Association to help families like mine to get the support they need. I also want people to understand how devastating stroke can be. Before my grandad had his stroke, I had no idea how severely the condition can affect a person.”

Mikaela Leape, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 100,000 strokes in the UK each year, it’s vital we have people like Abigail to help raise vital funds. We’re incredibly grateful to Abigail for taking on the Total Warrior 10k for the Stroke Association; the money raised will go a long way in helping to support others who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

To sponsor Abigail, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abigail-nicholson. For more information about stroke, contact the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.