​Redditch fundraising duo receive regional recognition

A Redditch stroke survivor and his son have received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association in recognition of their fundraising efforts for the charity.

Steve Fitter, 56, had a major stroke in June 2013, when he was told he would never walk again. Used to working long hours as an IT project manager and frequently running, swimming and cycling long distances, Steve’s stroke had a massive impact on his life. The stroke initially left him with no movement on his right-hand side, although he has now made a good recovery physically. However, he has been left with aphasia, meaning his ability to communicate has been affected.

Just five months after his stroke, Steve teamed up with his son Antony, 31, to create Project Banana, a year-long fundraising campaign named after Steve’s nickname, which aimed to raise money for the Stroke Association.

Kicking off with the Birmingham Half Marathon alongside Antony’s wife Jennifer, the pair took part in a series of half marathons, endurance events and triathlons. They organised a successful quiz night, and Antony took part in the London Marathon, raising over £2,590 for the charity in total.

The family was nominated for the Fundraiser of the Year Award by Joanne Hoy, Stroke Recovery Service Coordinator at the Stroke Association, who supported Steve throughout his recovery.

Joanne said: “I supported Steve through our Communication Support service in Worcestershire and during this time Steve has gained more and more confidence with his speech. It has been a very long and emotional road for Steve and his family, who have encouraged him every step of the way.

“Their commitment to fundraising for the Stroke Association while recovering from a life-changing stroke is commendable. They truly deserve this recognition for their amazing efforts.”

Steve and Antony received the Highly Commended certificate at a celebratory event at The ICC in Birmingham on Wednesday 25 November. Their certificate was presented by Dave Hill, lead guitarist and vocalist in Slade.

Antony added: “The Stroke Association has played a big part in my dad’s recovery. By creating Project Banana, we hope we’ve raised more awareness of stroke, and also vital funds to help the charity continue the important work they do. The nomination means a lot and we really appreciate being recognised in this way.”

Bernice Jones, Regional Director for the Stroke Association in the West Midlands, said: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in the West Midlands and Leicestershire were nominated to receive a Life After Stroke Award. Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke, or in helping others to do the same.”

The Stroke Association’s Life After Stroke Awards recognise the courage shown by stroke survivors and carers as well as the great work and commitment shown by health professionals, groups and supporter organisations. Nominations for the 2016 Life After Stroke Awards are currently open and close on 30 April 2016. For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LASA