Survivors take a Step Out for Stroke in Scunthorpe

The Stroke Association is hosting a Step out for Stroke walk at Central Park, Scunthorpe at 11am on Sunday 14 May. 

This family fundraising event is open to everyone, regardless of age or ability and the charity is calling on people to register now and take part alongside local stroke survivors and their families.

The day will include lots of family-friendly activities including crafts for children, cake sale, Winterton Lions Refreshment van, a tombola and games.

Sarah Brown, 45 from Gainsborough, had a stroke in January 2014. Sarah spent seven weeks in hospital and has been left with weakness on her right side, as well as communication difficulties. Throughout her recovery, Sarah has been determined to improve and attends several Stroke Association groups including the charity’s communication support, peer support group and singing group.

Sarah said: “I’ve met many different people through the Stroke Association groups which has helped me improve my speech and increased my confidence. This will be my third Step Out for Stroke event and each year I’ve challenged myself to go faster and further. The Step Out event helps people to be strong and persevere.”

Linda Smith, 61 from Grimsby, has been supported by the Stroke Association’s Communication Support service, Linda has also signed up for the Step out for Stroke for the first time, to mark a milestone in her recovery.

Linda said: “When I had my stroke I had to leave work and couldn’t cope. The Stroke Association picked me up and helped me to take small steps to build my confidence and enjoy new hobbies including a singing group and sewing club. I’m so appreciative of all the support I’ve received from them and I wanted to give something back. The Step out for Stroke will be a massive challenge for me but I’m ready to take it on!”

John Peters, 56 from Grimsby had a stroke three years ago. His stroke left him with aphasia, which means he struggles to communicate and needs to take his time when speaking and reading.

After being supported by the Stroke Association’s Communication Plus service, John now volunteers as a driver to pick up stroke survivors and take them to the service groups.

John will be taking part in the Step out for Stroke for the second time. He said: “I’m really looking forward to taking part and my partner Caroline will be there to cheer me on. It’s also my birthday the day before so the walk will be part of my birthday celebrations!”

Louise Knight, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “We’re inviting the whole community to come to this fun day out and help us make it an event to remember. Our Step Out for Stroke events mark a milestone for many stroke survivors taking part, and it’s an event that the whole family will enjoy.

“We’re looking forward to seeing some truly inspirational people who will be taking their first steps since their stroke. Everyone taking part will be joined by hundreds of people across the UK who are walking to raise vital funds for everyone affected by stroke.”

To find out more about Step Out for Stroke visit www.stroke.org.uk/stepout