Wiltshire resident runs 10k every day for the Stroke Association

Press release -

Wiltshire resident runs 10k every day for the Stroke Association

A local Wiltshire resident is running a minimum of 10k every day for 256 days to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.

Graham Smith, 56, was inspired to take on this challenge after both his parents had strokes and sadly passed away. He started his charity challenge on Thursday 10th August, and by Tuesday 14 November he will have covered over one million metres.

Graham said: “In the past few years my life has been turned upside down by stroke. My father had two strokes and sadly passed away in 2014. He was the full-time carer to my mum, who had dementia. I cared for my mum for three years, and then in May this year she had a stroke and sadly passed away in September.

“I found caring full-time for someone with dementia extremely demanding and detrimental to my own health. I have always been reasonably fit, but after my mum passed away I wanted to do something to keep me focused and healthy. I’ve never been a runner or enjoyed running before, but I really wanted something to challenge me.

“My original plan was to run a minimum of 10k every day for 100 days. The Stroke Association then gave me a place on their team for the 2018 Virgin London Marathon, so I’m going to keep going until at least next April, which takes the number of days to 256.

“I’ve set myself a challenging fundraising goal of £10,000. Believe it or not I’m actually enjoying each run, and I’m even considering extending this! I’m really passionate about supporting the Stroke Association, I know just how devastating the condition is and I’m determined to do my bit to help make a difference. Early mornings, achy legs and sore feet are nothing compared to what families like mine have been through. I’m doing this challenge to support others who need help after their stroke.”

Hayley Ali, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 100,000 strokes a year in the UK – that’s around one every five minutes - it is vital that we have people who can raise funds for people affected by stroke. We’re incredibly grateful to Graham for taking on this huge challenge and we’ll be cheering him on every step of the way. The money will go a long way in helping to support people who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

To sponsor Graham, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/100daysof10ks

Topics

  • A stroke is a brain attack which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain. There are more than 100,000 strokes in the UK each year; that is around one stroke every five minutes. There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke. 
  • Stroke Association is a charity. We believe in life after stroke and together we can conquer stroke. We work directly with stroke survivors and their families and carers, with health and social care professionals and with scientists and researchers. We campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can. We fund research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. The Stroke Helpline (0303 303 3100) provides information and support on stroke. More information can be found at www.stroke.org.uk

    • Contacts

    Angela Macleod

    Angela Macleod

    Press contact Communications Officer Scotland press and Stroke Association research communications 0131 555 7244
    Laura Thomas

    Laura Thomas

    Press contact Communications Officer Wales 07776508594
    Ken Scott

    Ken Scott

    Press contact Press Officer North of England and Midlands 0115 778 8429
    Daisy Dighton

    Daisy Dighton

    Press contact Press Officer London and East of England 02079401358
    Martin Oxley

    Martin Oxley

    Press contact Press Officer South of England 07776 508 646
    Vicki Hall

    Vicki Hall

    Press contact PR Manager Fundraising and local services 0161 742 7478
    Scott Weddell

    Scott Weddell

    Press contact PR Manager Stroke policy, research and Northern Ireland 02075661528
    Katie Padfield

    Katie Padfield

    Press contact Head of PR & Media This team is not responsible for booking marketing materials or advertising
    Out of hours contact

    Out of hours contact

    Press contact Media queries 07799 436008
    Kate Asselman

    Kate Asselman

    Press contact Artist Liaison Lead 07540 518022
    Tell us your story

    Tell us your story

    Press contact 07799 436008

    The UK's leading stroke charity helping people to rebuild their lives after stroke

    The Stroke Association. We believe in life after stroke. That’s why we campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best possible recovery. It’s why we fund research to develop new treatments and ways to prevent stroke. The Stroke Association is a charity. We rely on your support to change lives and prevent stroke. Together we can conquer stroke.

    Stroke Association
    240 City Road
    EC1V 2PR London
    UK