Press release -
Weston-super-Mare stroke survivor takes a Step Out for Stroke in Clarence Park
A local stroke survivor from Weston-super-Mare is set to take part in the Stroke Association’s Step out for Stroke event at Clarence Park on Sunday 7 May 2017.
Operations Director, Mel Whittingham, 45, had a stroke last March. Mel left hospital unable to use the left side of her body and using a wheelchair. Thankfully Mel has made huge improvements in her recovery. She can now walk unaided, and is gradually returning to work.
Mel said: “The Stroke Association is a cause really close to my heart. My mother had two strokes ten years ago, and my auntie sadly passed away from a stroke last year. I wanted to take part in the Step Out for Stroke in memory of my auntie, but also for my mother, who never gives up.
“My family, friends and work colleagues have been so supportive, I couldn't have got through this without them. The impact of my stroke didn't really hit me until I came home from hospital and realised I couldn't drive, run upstairs, or even stand in the shower alone. I'm still strengthening my arm, hand and left knee but I'm getting there. I've returned to work, and I’m now able to walk my dog Jack, who will also be joining me on the day.
“I really want to push myself on the day to show other stroke survivors that it’s not the end of the road. I've promised my work colleagues that I'll be dancing by Christmas, so the Step Out for Stroke will be preparation for all those dance moves!”
Jayne Hughes, Community and Events Fundraising Manager, at the Stroke Association, said: “Step out for Stroke is a fun walk that everyone can be part of, no matter what your age or fitness level. We’re hugely grateful to Mel for joining us for this year’s event.
“We’re inviting the whole community to come to this fun day out and help us make it an event to remember. Our Step Out for Stroke events mark a milestone for many stroke survivors taking part, and it’s an event that the whole family will enjoy. Everyone taking part will be joined by hundreds of people across the UK who are walking to raise vital funds for everyone affected by stroke.”
To find out more about Step Out for Stroke visit www.stroke.org.uk/stepout
To sponsor Mel you can visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Mel-Whittingham
To sponsor Mel's neice who will be joining her on the day, please visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Anna-Evans19
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For interviews, photographs or more information, please contact Daisy Dighton on telephone 0207 940 1358 or daisy.dighton@stroke.org.uk