Press release -
Dorset woman takes on Resolution Run for the Stroke Association
Hanna Coles from Ferndown is taking on the Stroke Association’s Resolution Run on Sunday 19 March at Moors Valley Country Park in Ringwood.
Hanna, 25, was inspired to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association after her mother, Karen Groombridge, had a stroke in 2008, aged 52.
Hanna said: “My mum’s stroke was completely out of the blue. It was such a shock to us all and left the family devastated.
“Since having a stroke, mum can’t use the left side of her body, and uses a wheelchair. Although it really knocked her confidence, mum hasn’t given up. She now volunteers for the Stroke Association to help others, and has also just completed an Open University course in Business Management.
“Taking on the run is a huge challenge as I’ve never done anything like this before. I managed to convince my friend Joanna to take part, and surprisingly I’m really enjoying training.
“I just want to finish the race and make my family proud of me. I’ve chosen to raise funds for the Stroke Association as it’s a cause close to my heart, and I want others affected by stroke to get the support they need like my mum did.”
Jayne Hughes, Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “There are around 1.2 million people in the UK today living with the impact of stroke, so it’s vital that we have people like Hanna and Joanna who can raise funds for people affected by stroke. We can’t wait to cheer them on as they cross the finish line.”
At least half of strokes could be prevented if people made simple lifestyle changes, such as keeping blood pressure under control and exercising more. The money raised through the Resolution Run will help the Stroke Association to fund vital research and help support people affected by stroke in the South West.
To sponsor Vicki, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/HannaC Entry fee is just £15. All runners receive a technical running t-shirt and medal. For more information about entering or volunteering at the Resolution Run, visit www.stroke.org.uk/resolution, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.