Plymouth stroke survivor takes on walking challenge for charity after losing the ability to walk

Father of four, Ben Turner, 35 from Plymouth, had a stroke in October 2015 and lost the ability to walk. However, Ben learnt how to walk again and is now set to take part in the Step Out for Stroke fundraising walk at Hoe Park on Saturday 12 May, in aid of the Stroke Association.

Ben said: “I was getting out of the car one evening when I suddenly fell to the floor. My partner got me indoors and that’s when I started vomiting and feeling disorientated. I decided to go bed to sleep it off, but my health really deteriorate through the night. The following day a doctor visited me at home and said I had an ear infection, it wasn’t until the next day when things began to get really worrying for my family that another doctor came to my home, and picked up on the fact that I may had had a stroke.

“I was rushed to hospital and they performed a CT scan on my brain which confirmed I’d had a stroke. I was terrified, I never knew someone my age could have a stroke – I always assumed it was older people. Laying in my hospital bed, I couldn’t walk, feed myself and simple movements like sitting up caused the world of pain in my head. All I could think about is how I needed to get better for my partner and kids.

“The physiotherapists at the hospital said it would take a good couple of years for me to slowly get on my feet again, but within nine months I’d shocked everyone by walking my first steps. Nurses and my family would tell me to slow down, but I was so determined to get better. I wanted to play with my kids again, be able to run with them in the park, and get back to work – I couldn’t help but to push myself to the absolute limit to get better.

“I’m taking part in the Stroke Association’s Step Out for Stroke with my family. My partner Leah is my absolute rock, she’s been so supportive and I wouldn’t know where I’d be without her. I’m going to feel so proud to be wearing my Stroke Association top and taking this steps with my loved ones by my side.”

Step out for Stroke sponsored walks take place across the UK from May to July 2018 to raise money for the Stroke Association to support stroke survivors and their families. 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. 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.

Amy Spencer, Fundraising Manager 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 Ben 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.”

To sponsor Ben, please visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ben-turner33

Step out for Stroke walks take place across England from May to July 2018 Visit www.stroke.org.uk/stepoutto sign-up to an event near you.