Hampshire mother takes on Resolution Run for the Stroke Association

Emily Nicholls, 39, from Alton is taking on the Stroke Association’s Resolution Run on Sunday 11 March, to mark a milestone in her recovery from a life-changing stroke.

Emily, a mother of two, was on a train travelling home from London in February last year when she had a stroke. She said: “Sitting on a packed commuter train, I suddenly lost feeling down my right side of my body. My vision then went in my right eye, and I had no idea what was happening to me.

“Thankfully the help I received from strangers that night saved my life. From the man who sat next to me and asked me if I needed help, to the man who spoke to my husband on the phone, the guard who called for a doctor on the train, the doctor who identified I was having a stroke, to the lady who came with me in the ambulance and held my hand – their actions will never leave me and still amaze me each day.

“I’m also so grateful to have had the support from my family and friends, especially my husband Paul. Paul has been my rock throughout this, he’s supported my every step of the way.

“I’m not the world’s best runner, but after my stroke I think it’s so important sign up and support the Stroke Association. I want to raise vital funds for the charity, and help other families affected by stroke to get the support they need.”

Emma Evans, Events Manager 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 Emily is taking part. We’re looking forward to cheering her on alongside our other participants as she makes their 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 South.

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.ukor call 0300 330 0740.