​Stoke-on-Trent stroke survivor takes on Resolution Run for the Stroke Association

Paula Bennett, 48, from Stoke-on-Trent is taking on the Stroke Association’s Resolution Run on Sunday 04 March, just months after surviving a stroke.

Paula woke up on 07 November 2017 feeling strange, but managed to drive to work as a Store Manager for the Co-Op. After a couple of hours she felt even worse, and visited the nurse who told her she had an ear infection. After a couple of days of resting at home, Paula’s doctor thought she could have Bell’s palsy and sent her to hospital, where a scan confirmed that she had had a stroke.

Paula said: “I’d had a cold, so initially thought my symptoms were a result of that; I felt very confused and unsteady. However, I realised something was seriously wrong. Eventually I was sent to hospital, and spent nine hours having tests and speaking to hospital staff, even though I kept telling them I thought I was having a stroke. It was only when I was eventually given a CT scan that they confirmed my worst fears.

“My stroke has left me with weakness in my left side, but it is improving with physiotherapy. My speech has also been affected, and when I’m tired I can’t get my words out. There are so many other effects that I didn’t realise could happen. For me, the worst part of my stroke has been its emotional impact. I now cry very easily and inappropriately. It’s been so scary and I felt quite embarrassed until the Stroke Association visited me at home and explained everything. I’ve learnt more from the Stroke Association than anybody, and it’s really put me at ease.”

Paula is now preparing to take on the Stroke Association’s 5km Resolution Run at Trentham Gardens on Sunday 04 March, to raise vital funds for the charity.

Paula said: “I’ll be walking the route alongside all my friends and family, I’ve not given them the option of saying no! I want to challenge myself and give back to the charity that’s helped me so much, as well as raising funds to support others affected by this condition. I’m really enjoying walking to aid my recovery, so the Resolution Run gives me a goal to work towards.”

Ruth Tandy, 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 Paula is taking part. We’re looking forward to cheering her on alongside our other participants as she makes her 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 the Midlands.

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.