Press release -
Belper stroke survivor encourages budding bakers to Give a Hand and Bake
Stroke survivor and star baker from Belper, Sharon Smedley, is encouraging people across the East Midlands to Give a Hand and Bake for the Stroke Association.
The charity’s latest fundraising initiative asks people to roll up their sleeves, grab a mixing bowl and bake to help make a difference for people affected by stroke. Give a Hand and Bake takes place this autumn from 24 – 30 October, when budding bakers will bake a difference all over the UK.
Sharon, 55, has always enjoyed baking cakes, but a stroke 18 months ago initially stopped her from enjoying the hobby she loved. A mother to two daughters, Sharon’s stroke left her with weakness in her right hand side and affected her speech and memory.
Sharon said: “My stroke was life-changing and it took me around a year to get back to baking. I’ve had to find different ways to do things, such as setting alarms to remind me when my cakes are done. My daughters also help me a lot.”
Sharon worked as a childminder before her stroke, but hasn’t been able to return to work since. She now volunteers and enjoys baking for her friends and family.
Louise Knight, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “Sharon’s recovery is inspiring. There are over 93,000 stroke survivors living in the East Midlands, who need support to rebuild their lives.
“This October, we’re looking for bakers to help raise some serious dough for people recovering from stroke. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned chef or a first time baker, all you’ll need is a generous dollop of enthusiasm and a hungry group of friends and you’ll have the perfect recipe for fundraising success.
“Whether you prefer to host an afternoon tea for your colleagues or create a fancy showstopper to wow your friends, a simple donation in return for a slice of cake will help to make a real difference. With your support during Give a Hand Week we can create a new era for stroke where every stroke survivor gets the treatment they need and the lifelong care they deserve.”
For more information on how you can bake a difference and to get a free pack, visit www.stroke.org.uk/giveahand.
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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 around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is one of the largest causes of disability. 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
