Local stroke survivor joins the resolution for the Stroke Association

Kerry Hewitt, 45, from Derby, is helping to rebuild lives after stroke by taking part in his first ever Resolution Run in aid of the Stroke Association, on 23 February at Markeaton Park.

Kerry was inspired to sign up after having a stroke, just weeks after running in a marathon. Thankfully Kerry has gone on to make an exceptional recovery and now wants to support other stroke survivors and prove that there is life after stroke.

Kerry, who is a keen runner, had a stroke in October 2019. At the time he was working when his wife started noticing his communication seemed odd over the phone. When Kerry returned home he and his wife knew something was wrong as Kerry had a hard time understanding and talking. They phoned an ambulance and attended Derby Royal Hospital where Doctors would eventually confirm Kerry had had a stroke.

While in hospital, Kerry felt quite comfortable and had no real pain physically, however his cognitive skills were initially effected.

Kerry said: “I am proud to join the resolution and run the Resolution Run as a stroke survivor. I remember being so confused in hospital following my stroke and not really knowing what was happening or what was going to happen next. After coming out of hospital I thought I was fine but my cognitive skills were really effected but thankfully these have improved so much now.

“Even now I’m aware I’m not what I used to be, I know I won’t go back to being that person, but these days I feel a new kind of normal. My memory was really effected after my stroke but luckily that’s back to where it used to be now. Straight after my stroke it felt like my brain was over fluent or something and I got confused easily and talked so fast but that’s also back to normal now.

“I was buzzing that I recovered quite well after my stroke and haven’t been left with any real lasting effects. There are aspects that won’t be the same again but recovery can be quick. I can’t wait to take part in the Resolution Run and show others who are still in recovery that you can be fit, healthy and happy after a stroke”.

Joanne Burr, Regional Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association said: “Stroke recovery is a marathon not a sprint. And each recovery is as individual as each survivor like Kerry’s. That’s why we’re encouraging people to join our Resolution Run in Derby and raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.

“Life after stroke is different for us all, but there is one way we can stand together. The Resolution Run is the perfect opportunity to mark a milestone in your own stroke recovery, show your support for a friend or family member affected by stroke, or in memory of a loved one. You can run, walk or cheer and choose your distance to suit you. It’s more than a run, it’s a resolution to help rebuild lives after stroke.”

There are 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK living with devastating wide-ranging disabilities such as speech difficulties, memory loss and mental health issues. The Stroke Association provides specialist support, funds critical research and campaigns to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives.

Entry fee is just £15 and runners can choose their distance from a range of distances depending on location. Walk or run, all participants will receive a medal waiting at the finish line. To join the resolution, visit www.resolutionrun.org.uk, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.

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For more information, please contact Ken Scott on 0115 7788429 or email ken.scott@stroke.org.uk