Newbury stroke survivor takes on walking challenge for charity

Rachael Elliott, 40 from Newbury, is taking part in a fundraising walk for the Stroke Association, the charity that supported her after she had a stroke that left her unable to move her eyes up and down. The Step Out for Stroke fundraising walk will take place at Goldsworth Park Lake on Saturday 22 July 2018.

Four months ago, Rachael was completing her daily indoor cycle, when she suddenly felt extremely dizzy and her vision began to blur. Not knowing what was happening, Rachael called an ambulance and was taken to hospital where she was diagnosed with a haemorrhagic stroke, caused by bleeding in the brain stem. Haemorrhagic strokes account for around 15 per cent of all strokes.

Rachael said: “The walk will be a challenge, but it will be a huge step towards showing how far I have come with my recovery. My mum and a number of my colleagues from my work will be taking part alongside me.”

“Prior to my stroke, I was training 3-4 hours a day and was the picture of health. I won the National closed circuit championships last year and also rode the UK record for 30 miles in October last year.”

“I was completely bowled over by the level of information provided by the Stroke Association following my stroke. At such as scary time I found their leaflets and information on the website invaluable. I wanted to do something to raise vital funds for an amazing charity”

Stroke is a leading cause of disability and there are there are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the after effects. Step out for Stroke walks will take place across the UK from May to July 2018 to raise money for the Stroke Association to support stroke survivors and their families.

Jen Robinson Slater, Regional Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “Stroke strikes in an instant and causes more disabilities than any other condition. It’s a real inspiration to see Rachael taking on this walking challenge to raise vital funds to support other stroke survivors.

“Step out for Stroke is a fun walk that everyone can be part of, no matter what your age or fitness level. We’re inviting the whole community to come to this fun day out and help us make it an event to remember. For stroke survivors who are taking part it’s also a celebration of their first steps towards overcoming the challenges of living with stroke and regaining their independence.”

Visit www.stroke.org.uk/stepout to sign-up to an event near you.