Essex resident helps Make May Purple for Stroke

Sarah Johnson, 33 from Stambridge, is holding a charity dance at The Freight House on Friday 18 May, to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.

Sarah was inspired to support the Stroke Association after her cousin Samantha Lamb, had a stroke last year at the age of 41.

Sarah said: “Sam’s stroke was a huge shock to the whole family. We couldn’t believe she’d had one – she seemed too young. We now of course know that stroke isn’t just an old person’s condition, and anyone can have a stroke at any time of their life.

“As a family we want to really raise awareness of stroke. The Stroke Association is now a cause that’s extremely close to our hearts. I wanted to organise the charity dance to help other families affected by stroke to get the support they need. I’d encourage everyone from Essex and the surrounding areas to come along to what is shaping up to be a great evening.”

Sarah’s charity dance takes place in Make May Purple for Stroke. The Stroke Association is calling on everyone to sign up to Make May Purple in 2018. During the month of May, the charity is encouraging everyone to go purple pounds and raise vital funds for its work supporting people who have been affected by stroke.

In the UK stroke is the leading cause of disability and there are 1.2 million people living with the physical and emotional after effects. The money raised through Make May Purple for Stroke will enable the charity to support many more stroke survivors regain their independence.

George Burroughs, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “With more than 100,000 strokes in the UK each year, it’s vital we have people like Sarah to help raise funds. We’re incredibly grateful to her for fundraising for us; the money raised will go a long way in helping to support others who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

The charity dance starts at 8:30pm. For more information and to buy tickets, please contact Sarah on 07808 518 139.

To find out more about the work of the Stroke Association and how you can Make May Purple visit www.stroke.org.uk/makemaypurple.