​Local runner’s Resolution Run for Stroke Association

Ryan Peters, 21, from Leybourne has made a New Year’s resolution to take part in his first ever charity Resolution Run in aid of the Stroke Association at Mote Park on Sunday 24 March 2019.

Ryan was inspired to take part in the 5k run after his father, Andrew, had a stroke in 2017.

Ryan said: “I have chosen to run the Resolution Run for my Dad who had a stroke in 2017. Since his stroke the Stroke Association has been there to support and guide him through some of the hardest days.

“My dad has come a long way since having his stroke and is constantly making improvements every day. It has only been a short time since I have started running and I feel that this will be the first big achievement for me. It makes it so much better knowing that I am doing this for my dad!

“When dad had his stroke, it was a hard time for everyone in the family. At the time he was unable to speak, walk or use his arms. However since then he has made almost a full recovery. Without the support of the Stroke Association none of this would have been possible.

“My dad lives on his own and initially he found it difficult to talk to people and practice his speech. This Stroke Association helped by introducing him to local groups where he gets to meet other stroke survivors and work on his recovery. I wanted to take part in the Resolution Run to thank the charity for all they’ve done for my dad and family. Stroke is a cruel condition that can turn someone’s life upside down in an instant. The charity are an incredible lifeline for many.”

Chloe Braidford, Regional 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 in Maidstone who want to do something fun together, while getting more active in 2019.

“In the UK there are around 100,000 strokes every year. Our latest research ⁽ⁱ⁾ shows that by training and taking part in a Resolution Run, you are helping to lower your stroke risk. The funds raised by each runner means we can reach out to more stroke survivors and their families to offer the support that they may need to rebuild their lives. On behalf of the thousands of stroke survivors and their loved ones that we support every year, I just want to say thank you.”

Research from the charity shows that many strokes could be prevented if people made some simple lifestyle changes. Introducing physical activity into your routine is just one aspect of a healthier lifestyle required to reduce your risk of stroke. Monitoring (and managing) your blood pressure, eating a more balanced diet and stopping smoking can all significantly reduce your stroke risk. The money raised through the Resolution Run in Maidstone will help the Stroke Association to fund vital research and support people affected by stroke in the South East.”

Last year participants raised over £633,000 for the Stroke Association This year the charity hopes to raise over £850,000 to continue supporting stroke survivors and their families throughout the UK.

To sponsor Ryan, please visit: www.justgiving.com/ryan-peters-maidstone-resolution-run-2019

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 www.resolutionrun.org.uk email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.