​Local stroke survivors take on Step out for Stroke, despite being more than 1,600 miles away from Scunthorpe

Two local stroke survivors and volunteers are set to take part in the charity’s Step out for Stroke event, despite being more than 1,600 miles away from Scunthorpe, near Gibraltar.

Jackie Lloyd, 63 from Winterton had a stroke more than 40 years ago, before her husband Shaun had a stroke in 2012. Jackie was left with a weakened left side meaning she struggles to walk, while Shaun developed epilepsy as the result of his stroke. After being supported by the Stroke Association throughout Shaun’s recovery, both chose to volunteer for the charity, helping other stroke survivors receive support in the local area.

This year, the Stroke Association is holding its annual Step out for Stroke sponsored walking event in Central Park on Sunday 10 May, however Jackie and Shaun had already booked to go on a P&O Mediterranean cruise when the event is taking place.

Undeterred, they calculated that three times around the Arcadia ship’s promenade is a mile in distance. As she usually uses a mobility scooter to get around, walking the distance is a huge challenge for Jackie, and Shaun will also walk alongside her for support.

Jackie said: “After Shaun was given so much support from the Stroke Association, we were both keen to volunteer and help other people in the area. We usually volunteer at the Step out for Stroke event in Central Park, with me following the walkers on my mobility scooter. The furthest distance I normally walk is from my living room to my car, so walking the mile route is going to be a huge challenge for me!”

Step out for Stroke celebrates the achievements of stroke survivors as they walk alongside their friends and family, all while helping to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association. Each walk is wheelchair accessible and suitable for any level of walking ability. Participants can walk at their own pace, in their own time. Ultimately, Step out for Stroke celebrates the brave steps in a stroke survivor’s recovery. The event at Central Park will also be a fun day for the whole family, with games, stalls, refreshments and activities to keep the little ones entertained.

Jo Beverley, Regional Fundraiser from the Stroke Association, added: ““Step out for Stroke is a fun walk that everyone can be part of, no matter what your age or fitness level. We’re hugely grateful to Jackie and Shaun for joining us for this year’s event, despite being so far away at sea! Every step makes a difference, and we want Step out for Stroke 2015 to be our biggest year yet. Join us in Scunthorpeto help even more stroke survivors take their first steps on the road to recovery and together we can conquer stroke.”

For more information on Step out for Stroke and to enter, visit www.stroke.org.uk/stepout