​Leeds mother takes on Resolution Run for the Stroke Association

Natalie Smith-Jones, 32, from Leeds is taking on the Stroke Association’s Resolution Run on Sunday 25 March, after her mother survived a stroke on the day of her daughter’s birthday.

Natalie’s mother, Linda, 65, woke up in the night in September 2017 and collapsed when she couldn’t move her left side. After being taken to hospital, Linda’s blood pressure was sky high, she had lost the sight in one eye, and she couldn’t move her left hand side.

Natalie said: “I’d taken my daughter Annabelle to Peppa Pig world for her third birthday, when I got a phone call telling me I needed to come home straight away. Mum was in hospital for 10 weeks, and came home the week before Christmas. It’s so frustrating. Throughout all her life she has worked hard; she has raised six children whilst working two jobs.

“Fortunately, my mum’s sight and the movement in her arm came back, but she is still having trouble with the movement in her leg. She is currently undergoing intense physiotherapy.”

Natalie is now preparing to take on the Stroke Association’s 5km Resolution Run at Temple Newsam, Leeds on Sunday 25 March, to raise vital funds for the charity.

Natalie said: “I took part in the Resolution Run five years ago when my grandad passed away after a stroke. After my mum’s stroke, I thought it was a good reason to sign up again to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association and help other families affected by stroke to get the support they need. My friend will be running alongside me on the day, and my partner Matthew and Anabelle will be cheering us on every step of the way!”

Joanne Burr, 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 who want to do something fun together, while getting more active in 2018.

“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 Natalie is taking part. We’re looking forward to cheering her on alongside our other participants as she makes their way through the 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 Runs will help the Stroke Association to fund vital research and support people affected by stroke in Yorkshire.

Entry fee is just £16. 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.