Press release -
Skipton stroke survivor prepares for fundraising head shave
A stroke survivor from Skipton is plucking up the courage to have her head shaved to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association, four years after experiencing a life-threatening stroke.
Donna Hawkins, 49, collapsed while working as an Optical Assistant in February 2013, after experiencing headaches for weeks. Hospital staff told her husband Ron to expect the worst, but after surgery and six days in hospital, Donna made an excellent recovery with minimal lasting effects.
Donna is now preparing to have her hair shaved at a fundraising event at the Cock and Bottle in Skipton on Sunday 05 February, marking the fourth anniversary of her stroke.
Donna said: “Although I’ve made a good recovery, I know I’m very fortunate to be here. I’m 50 this year and wanted to do something to celebrate and give something back. My mum Rene has also had two strokes and has been left with limited swallow and speech. I’ve chosen to raise funds for the Stroke Association because it’s a cause close to my heart. I want to help others affected by stroke to get the support they need.
“I didn’t want to run and I’m fed up of dyeing my hair, so I thought why not organise a sponsored head shave? I’m hoping lots of people will come along to support me on the day, and donate to this worthy cause to help raise as much money as possible.”
Jo Beverley, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 152,000 strokes in the UK each year, it’s vital we have people like Donna to help raise vital funds. We’re incredibly grateful to Donna for organising the sponsored head shave for the Stroke Association; the money raised will go a long way in helping to support others who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”
To sponsor Donna, visit www.justgiving.com/donnascrazyshave. For more information about stroke, contact the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.
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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
