​Salford stroke survivor joins the resolution for the Stroke Association

Andy Bowskill, 38 from Salford, is helping to rebuild lives after stroke by taking part in his first ever Resolution Run in aid of the Stroke Association, on Sunday 08 March at Heaton Park.

Andy was inspired to take on the 10km event after he survived a life-changing stroke in September 2016.

Andy said: “I went to a cousin's stag weekend in Southampton and played bubble-football. I was running for the ball, another guy tackled me and I went to the floor. I thought at the time it was a minor injury. Later on, in the pub and laughing, I forgot all about it.

“Three days later, I was in a meeting at work when I started talking gobbledygook. I thought it was weird but carried on. Later on at home, my ex-girlfriend and I were talking, when suddenly I passed out. Luckily, she phoned 999 and asked for an ambulance.”

Andy had had a stroke, which affected the movement in his right side and left him with aphasia, meaning his ability to communicate was affected. After four months in hospital undergoing intense rehabilitation, Andy returned home.

Andy added: “I go to the gym three days a week where I’m doing a lot of walking. My leg is strong now but still not what it was, and my shoulder and bicep is getting there, but my arm is still weak. I'm a positive person and I’m determined to keep going! I’m proud to join the resolution and walk the Resolution Run as a stroke survivor. I’m raising raise vital funds for the Stroke Association, so they can help others to rebuild their lives.”

Liv Simpson, Regional Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “Stroke recovery is a marathon not a sprint. And each recovery is as individual as each survivor. That’s why we’re encouraging people to join our Resolution Run in Manchester and raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.

“Life after stroke is different for us all, but there is one way we can stand together. The Resolution Run is the perfect opportunity to mark a milestone in your own stroke recovery, show your support for a friend or family member affected by stroke, or in memory of a loved one. You can run, walk or cheer and choose your distance to suit you. It’s more than a run, it’s a resolution to help rebuild lives after stroke.”

There are 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK living with devastating wide-ranging disabilities such as speech difficulties, memory loss and mental health issues. The Stroke Association provides specialist support, funds critical research and campaigns to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives.

To sponsor Andy visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/andybowskill

Entry fee is just £15 and runners can choose their distance from a range of distances depending on location. Walk or run, all participants will receive a medal waiting at the finish line. To join the resolution, visit www.resolutionrun.org.uk, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.