Press release -
Cheshire Octogenarian takes stroke recovery in her stride
Stroke survivor and Helsby resident, Vera Kelly has completed the Stroke Association’s Step out for Stroke event in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, on Tuesday 20 May. The 80-year-old Grandmother took part in the charity’s fundraiser less than 18 months after having a stroke.
Vera was joined by her granddaughter Jessica for the Step out for Stroke event, and together the pair completed three laps of the course at Whitby Park.
The Ellesmere Port Step out for Stroke event took place as part of Action on Stroke Month and saw over 40 people complete the fundraising walk. Many participants included local stroke survivors like Vera.
Vera said “I‘ve always enjoyed walking, so taking part in the Stroke Association’s Step out for Stroke event seemed a fitting way to mark my recovery. It was a wonderful day, and managing to walk over two miles really topped it off.”
Vera had a stroke on 18 December 2012, which complete paralysed her left side. Gradually she regained movement, and with the help of physiotherapy, Vera was able to recover her ability to walk; initially using a stick and then taking steps with the help of physiotherapists.
Vera, who has raised over £350 for the Stroke Association through the event, added: “I find it frustrating when I can’t do the things I used to before my stroke, but taking part in the walk reminded me just how far I’ve come. Hopefully the money I and my granddaughter have raised for the charity will help other stroke survivors get back on their feet.”
Jane Fenwick, Information, Advice and Support Coordinator at the Stroke Association, said: “Vera’s determination as she continues her recovery is an inspiration to us all. It was fantastic to see the community come together to support the Stroke Association and stroke survivors. Through the vital funds raised by our incredible fundraisers like Vera, we can do even more for families affected by stroke.”
It’s not too late to sponsor Vera: visit www.justgiving.com/Christine-Kavanagh. To find out more about Stroke Association fundraising events, email louise.kay@stroke.org.uk or call 0161 742 7468.
Ends For interviews, photographs or more information, please contact Carly Norton on 020 7566 1500 or email carly.norton@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 the leading cause of severe adult 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 we’re leading a community of people to change the world for people affected by 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 ww.stroke.org.uk
