​Redditch stroke survivor marks a milestone with solo trip

Press release -

​Redditch stroke survivor marks a milestone with solo trip

Redditch stroke survivor, Steve Fitter, 58, has successfully completed his challenge of travelling Cornwall alone to help overcome his aphasia, with the support of the Stroke Association.

Steve had a major stroke in June 2013, and he was told he would never walk again. Used to working long hours as an IT project manager and frequently running, swimming and cycling long distances, Steve’s stroke had a massive impact on his life. His stroke initially left him with no movement on his right-hand side, although he has now made a good recovery physically. However, Steve has been left with aphasia, meaning his ability to communicate has been affected.

Steve set off to travel Cornwall alone on Monday 15 May for 12 weeks across three different camp sites, with the aim of helping him regain his freedom since his stroke. While there Steve ran at different Park Run locations around Cornwall, as well as cycling with local groups on various routes. He also visited local landmarks and attractions including Tintagle Castle, Padstow, St Ives and Kuggar and Lizard Point Heritage Centre.

Steve said of the trip: “It gave me my freedom and made me feel happy!”

Christy Weatherby, Life After Stroke Centre Coordinator at the Stroke Association in Bromsgrove, supported Steve to prepare for the journey. Christy said: “After a stroke, around one in three people like Steve have difficulty communicating, which can be both terrifying and isolating. We’re so proud of Steve taking on this daunting challenge. It’s clear to see his communication has improved and his confidence has grown through this experience.

“Prior to his trip, we helped Steve find his freedom by helping to plan routes, book accommodation, and produce communication aids for him to use while he is on his travels. This trip has marked a huge milestone in his recovery and he is now planning a five month tour around Scotland in a campervan on his own next year.”

Steve added: “Camping was a great experience, but the next trip by campervan will be more comfortable.”

For more information about the Life After Stroke Centre to get involved, contact Christy Weatherby at the Stroke Association on 01527 903 903 or email lascevents@stroke.org.uk. 

Topics

  • 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 more than 100,000 strokes in the UK each year; that is around one stroke every five minutes. 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 together we can conquer 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 www.stroke.org.uk

    • Contacts

    Vicki Hall

    Vicki Hall

    Press contact PR Manager Fundraising and local services 0161 742 7478

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    The UK's leading stroke charity helping people to rebuild their lives after stroke

    The Stroke Association. We believe in life after stroke. That’s why we campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best possible recovery. It’s why we fund research to develop new treatments and ways to prevent stroke. The Stroke Association is a charity. We rely on your support to change lives and prevent stroke. Together we can conquer stroke.

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