Young Boys Undertake Lent Fundraising Challenge for stroke charity.

Two young brothers from Motherwell – Dominic (9,) and Joseph (5) have decided to

raise funds for the Stroke Association, following their Nana’s stroke last December.

Veronica, 70, had a very serious stroke which initially left her unable to

swallow, to walk or talk. It was her birthday on the day she had her stroke and was

due to have a party at her daughter’s house in Glasgow. At one point during the

afternoon, Jacqueline noticed there was something seriously wrong with

her mum, and dialled 999, whereupon she was taken to the Queen Elizabeth

hospital, where she remained for three weeks. Despite there being little hope for Veronica's recovery, she was recruited onto a clinical trial which involved four hours of intense physiotherapy daily and use of specialist equipment. She spent a further eight weeks in Wishaw and started to make a remarkable recovery due to her grit and determination.

Two of her grandchildren - Dominic and Joseph decided they wanted to ‘give

something back’ for all the care and support their Nana received. So they decided to

take on a challenge and raise funds for the Stroke Association.

Dominic, who has taken part in fundraising activities previously, is undertaking four

cycles, to four football stadiums in North Lanarkshire. Joseph will be doing several

litter picking expeditions.

Dad Paul says:

“The effects of a stroke can be devastating, and my mum’s stroke has affected us

all. Thankfully she has had great support from health professionals since her return

home, and she is making great progress. I am so proud of both Dominic and

Joseph. They have taken part in fundraising events before and have loved it. This is a really special challenge for them this year, as the boys adore their Nana, and love

spending time with her.

Her goal was to be able to walk 15 stairs in the house, which she managed to achieve on her first day home. Since coming home, Veronica has managed to walk to the park near her home, and with the help of her husband, she has started to take on daily tasks in the house.

Recently she went out to an event to be interviewed by a local MSP and the staff working on the trial, to give feedback on her experience.

Paul continues: “Mum is incredible, and she has achieved so much since her stroke

in December. The support she has received has been amazing, and the family have

felt supported too. Her passion is spending time with her seven grandchildren. Thankfully she is back spending time with them now which they are all really enjoying. She is thrilled to see the boys raising money for a good cause.

Catherine Corr at St Brigid’s Primary school said:

“The challenge Dominic and Joseph are taken on is wonderful. This is important

time of the year for them, and many others, so it is fitting for them to be taking part

at this time. We are very proud of their efforts, and I’m sure will their challenge will

inspire other pupils to get involved in fundraising for good causes like this.”

Andrea Watt, Relationship Fundraiser - Scotland at the Stroke Association said:

“We are thrilled with the challenges both Dominic and Joseph are undertaking to

raise funds for the charity. They will have seen the challenges their nana has been

through, so will understand the importance of stroke support. The boys have

smashed their target and continue to raise more funds for their beloved nana. The

funds they raise will help the charity to support others affected by stroke, to let

them rebuild their lives again.”

To sponsor Dominic and Joseph, please go their JustGiving page:

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