Get moving again and Stride4Stroke
Australians, in need of inspiration to get moving again, are being urged to take part in Stride4Stroke this November.
Stride4Stroke is the Stroke Foundation's annual physical activity campaign. The beauty of Stride4Stroke is you can set your own activity goal to complete anywhere and at any time within the month.
Stride4Stroke is open to survivors of stroke, their families and friends and anyone in the community who wants to get active – at a safe distance and within coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic guidelines – and raise funds for Stroke Foundation.
Activity goals can be any shape or form, from running, walking, riding or swimming a set distance during the month to taking a desired number of steps in rehabilitation. It can be a personal or a group activity challenge.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said the COVID-19 pandemic has brought many challenges which have impacted our lives and ability to maintain good health and therefore reduce our stroke risk.
"I am a regular runner and have found it much harder to maintain my exercise routine without a fun run event goal to motivate me. I also know that I am not alone in reaching for comfort food more regularly during the pandemic," Ms McGowan said.
"But summer is on its way and it’s a great time to set a goal to improve our health, feel good and raise money for the Stroke Foundation in the process. It's time to take our active gear outside of the home office and onto pavements, beaches and into parks!"
One in four people globally will have a stroke in their lifetime. Stroke is a devastating disease that strikes the brain and can change lives in an instant, however more than 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by managing blood pressure and cholesterol, eating healthily, exercising and not smoking.
Survivor Maryanne Hodgson is among those taking part in Stride4stroke this year.
Maryanne suffered a stroke in 2014 at the age of 52 and is aiming to walk up and down her street using her walking stick to cover 30 kilometres throughout November.
Maryanne said this is a big goal for her.
"I live Melbourne and have lost a lot of strength since COVID-19 restrictions began in March. Stride4Stroke is the kick start I need to get moving again," Maryanne said.
"I have the added incentive to get fit enough to dance with my son when he gets married next year.
"I also want to give back to the Stroke Foundation because I know a lot of other people who have suffered strokes and I want to help as much as possible."
Every dollar raised through Stride4Stroke will have an enormous impact. It will go towards vital Stroke Foundation programs like our free telephone advice service StrokeLine (1800 787 653) and EnableMe, online support services which help survivors and their families transition to life back home after stroke and throughout the recovery journey.
This November join in the fun and Stride4Stroke. You will be helping yourself and those in the stroke community. Register now at www.stride4stroke.org.au
And if you would like to support Maryanne visit here.
