Press release -
Jersey residents take on a paddle boarding challenge for the Stroke Association
A team of three men from Jersey are taking on paddle board challenge from the West Coast to the East Coast of Scotland, to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.
André Le Geyt, 47 from St Brélade, said: “My mum had a stroke when I was young and it affected her very much. There wasn’t much awareness back then and she sadly passed away. Recently my father had a stroke while in hospital waiting for a check-up. He was treated quickly and thankfully he’s made a full recovery. The Stroke Association supported us when my dad came home from hospital. I believe this made a real difference to his recovery. This is what inspired me to take on the challenge for the Stroke Association. I really want to raise awareness to help more people recover and survive from this terrible condition.”
André will be joined by his two friends, Will Edinborough and Andy Dawson. The team of three will be stand-up paddle boarding 92km from Fort William to Inverness in Scotland. André will be doing the challenge in one day on Saturday 16 September, whilst Will and Andy will be completing it over two days through to Sunday 17 September.
Will Edingborough, 37 of St Brélade said, “Stroke can happen to anyone at any time, and I know just how devastating the condition can be. My family has been touched by stroke, and that’s what inspired me to join André and Andy on the challenge. Training is going well, I’m taking it easy at the moment, and just getting used to it all. I’m really looking forward to the weekend!”
Andy Dawson, 44, of St Ouen added, “Like André and Will, I’ve also experienced stroke in the family. My father-in-law has had a number of strokes and now uses a wheelchair. I’m really looking forward to the challenge – I think it’s going to be tough, but it’s nothing compared to what many stroke survivors have to go through. I really hope that we can make a difference and spread more awareness about the condition.”
Tracy O’Regan, Fundraising and Operations Manager for the Stroke Association in Jersey, said: “Every year we help over 130 of stroke survivors and their families in Jersey, but we can only do this through the generosity of people like André, Will and Andy. We’re incredibly grateful to them for choosing to support the Stroke Association. The amount raised will go a long way towards helping more stroke survivors and their families to rebuild their lives.”
To sponsor André, Will and Andy, please visit www.justgiving.com/teams/great-glen-jersey. For more information about stroke, visit www.stroke.org.uk or call our helpline on 0303 303 3100.