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Billericay Stroke Survivor Steps Out For Stroke

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Billericay Stroke Survivor Steps Out For Stroke

Billericay stroke survivor Nicola Ackland, 32, has proved that their is ‘Life after Stroke’ after she took part in the Stroke Association’s Step out for Stroke charity walk last weekend, at High Woods Park in Colchester.

Nicola was joined by fourteen of her family and friends who cheered her on as she managed to walk 1.61 miles, the furthest distance she has walked since her stroke two years ago.

So far, the family have managed to raise £1,500 for the Stroke Association and are hoping to raise more. Nicola had her stroke two years ago after going to bed with a severe headache. Nicola explained: “I never thought that I would have a stroke, so it came as a complete surprise. One evening two years ago, I told my sons that I didn’t feel well and I was going to bed. When I woke up in the morning I couldn’t move my body to get out of bed. I was so frightened, and couldn’t understand what was going on. I managed to drag myself to my son’s room, and told them to call 999 fast. After months in hospital, I came home with aphasia, depression, right side paralysis and epilepsy. It was an extremely terrifying experience, but I am so grateful for all the support from my friends and family.”

Although the movement has gradually returned and Nicola has started walking, she still has limited control over her right side.

Nicola said: “The Step out for Stroke on Sunday was a huge success, I managed to walk 1.61 miles which is a huge achievement. The Stroke Association do a fantastic job to help stroke survivors and their families, so I am so happy to support the charity's work, and help raise vital funds so they can help others. For me, physically and mentally it was exhausting, but it was wonderful to have the support of my family and friends walking alongside me.”

Claire Ackland, Nicola's mum said: "When my daughter had her stroke at the age of 30, I was so scared. As a parent, it was the most terrifying day of my life. However, Nicola has always been a fighter and she is a shining example that there is life after stroke. The day was a fantastic family affair, Nicola was joined by me, her dad, her sister, her brother-in-law, her two sons, her nephews and friends. It was lovely to see everyone come together for a good cause."

George Burroughs, Fundraising Manager from the Stroke Association in the East of England, added: “Nicola is a real inspiration and seeing her challenge herself at Step out for Stroke is testament to how far she has come.”


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·  A stroke is a brain attack, which happens when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain. It is the leading cause of severe adult disability in the UK. In the East of England around 11,600 people have a stroke every year and over 100,000 people live with the effects of stroke.

·  Stroke Association is a charity. We believe in life after stroke and we’re leading a community of people to change the world for people affected by 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 0207 566 1548
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 Taylor

Katie Taylor

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

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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
City Road
EC1V 2PR London
UK