​Colne volunteer receives regional recognition

A volunteer from Colne has received a Highly Commended Life After Stroke Award from the Stroke Association, in recognition of more than 10 years of support for stroke survivors.

John Gott, 68, began volunteering for the Stroke Association in 2003. As a volunteer driver for a local community car scheme, John drove a stroke survivor to a local Stroke Association support group, where he learnt more about the condition. After speaking to the local coordinator for the charity, John began to volunteer in Pendle and gradually his role grew.

John works to support stroke survivors in East Lancashire, raises awareness of stroke and the work of the Stroke Association and supports with fundraising events. He has volunteered at the Bupa Manchester 10km for the past 10 years and became an ambassador for the Stroke Association in 2013.

John received his Highly Commended certificate from Dr Jordi Morrell, Stroke Consultant at Central Manchester Foundation Trust, and Sale Sharks rugby stars, Mark Cueto and Danny Cipriani, at a celebratory event at the AJ Bell Stadium, Salford on Tuesday 28 October.

John was nominated by the Stroke Association’s Regional Fundraiser, Rebecca Owen. She said: “John has been a very valued fundraising volunteer for over 10 years. Always willing to give his time, he is always the first volunteer to turn up to events, sometimes even beating the staff! John has helped out at more events than the team can possibly remember, be it abseiling down the Leasowne Lighthouse or attending a cheque presentation, he has done it.

“Due to his dedication and knowledge John has also become an ambassador for the Stroke Association, helping to raise awareness of stroke and the charity. The team cannot thank him enough for the time and effort he has given and we look forward to working with him for many more years to come.”

John said: “I really enjoy my role as a volunteer; it’s so important to raise awareness of stroke and help to raise the profile of Stroke Association. I particularly love helping to organise events, and the team are always very supportive. It was an honour to be nominated for the Life After Stroke Awards and I’m very thankful to Rebecca. I look forward to many more years volunteering for the Stroke Association.”

Chris Larkin, Regional Head of Operations for the Stroke Association in the North West, added: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever. We were thrilled that so many of our community in the North West 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. If you would like to nominate someone for their recovery or for doing something incredible to raise vital funds for people recovering from stroke, please nominate them for next year’s awards.”

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. Next year’s nominations open on 5 November 2014. For more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/LifeAfterStrokeAwards

For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.