Cirencester man takes on Resolution Run for the Stroke Association

Andy Masser, 53, from Cirencester, is taking on the Stroke Association’s Resolution Run on Sunday 15 April, after a life-changing stroke.

Andy had a stroke in February 2005 whilst kiteboarding. Andy said: “As a result of my stroke I lost part of my vision, most of my memory and the feeling down right hand side of my body.

“During the following two years after my stroke, with the help of my family and friends, I slowly regained my memory. I learned how to read again, and adjusted to my visual impairment and my weaker right hand side. I returned to work in 2007 with wonderful support from my employer.

“In 2010 my dad sadly went on to also have a stroke. Thankfully he’s made a good recovery, but this has inspired me to do as much as I can for the Stroke Association. At the beginning of 2012 I decided I needed to do something to get fit and healthy again. I joined a gym and became a lot healthier. I then started to get into running and have since completed a half marathon and marathon.

“For me the running is just about showing you can, because for most of my life I've said ‘I can't’ too often.”

Andy is now preparing to take on the Stroke Association’s 15km Resolution Run at Lydiard Park on Sunday 15 April, to raise vital funds for the charity.

Jen Robinson-Slater, Community and Events Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “A Resolution Run is exactly that – a resolution for the New Year that counts. It's the ideal event for people in Swindon who want to do something fun together, while getting more active in 2018.

“A stroke can strike anyone, at any time. Every five minutes in the UK, someone’s life is turned upside down by stroke. By signing up to a Resolution Run, each runner will help us do so much more to support stroke survivors and their families as they rebuild their lives. We’re thrilled Andy is taking part. We’re looking forward to cheering him on alongside our other participants as he makes his way through Lydiard Park.”

At least half of strokes could be prevented if people made simple lifestyle changes, such as keeping blood pressure under control, eating healthily and taking regular exercise. The money raised through the Resolution Run in Swindon will help the Stroke Association to fund vital research and support people affected by stroke in the South West.

Entry fee is just £15. All runners receive a technical running t-shirt and medal. For more information about entering or volunteering at the Resolution Run, visit http://www.stroke.org.uk/resolution, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.