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Survivor set to Stride4Stroke in Sydney

October 25, 2021
Breakfast Point local Gus Sabatino will work up a sweat for a good cause this November as part of the Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity campaign Stride4Stroke.

Gus, who has survived two strokes, has set himself a challenge to run 210km throughout November to raise funds and awareness of the disease. 

Gus said he knows how fortunate he is to have made a good recovery. 

"I received prompt diagnosis and treatment, which is paramount after a stroke to stop the damage to your brain,” Gus said.

"Although I was paralysed and had difficulty speaking at first, I was able to set and achieve many goals, including running again. I was able to feel like me again.
 
“By taking part in Stride4Stroke, I am supporting the Stroke Foundation to advocate for increased access to specialised stroke treatment that saves lives, along with advancements in rehabilitation care.”

Stroke is sudden. It is a devastating disease that strikes the brain and can impact people of all ages. However, the good news is 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by managing blood pressure and living a healthy, active lifestyle. 

Stroke Foundation New South Wales State Manager Rhian Paton-Kelly said one million strokes each year globally are linked to physical inactivity.

“Our No Postcode Untouched research indicates that in any given week, 12 per cent of Australians are not doing any physical activity.  In the Reid federal electorate, it is estimated more than 23,500, people are not moving enough,” Ms Paton-Kelly said.

“I thank Gus for getting involved in Stride4Stroke and leading by example. Boosting your daily moving minutes can make a difference to prevent stroke and other chronic disease. 
“I hope his story inspires others in the community to sign up and join the fun. It’s not too late.”

Stride4Stroke is open to anyone who would like to get active – at a safe distance and within coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic guidelines.

Participants are encouraged to set an activity goal to increase their daily ‘moving minutes’. They can choose any activity to complete within the month – from walking, running, swimming, cycling, an online exercise class or a goal in stroke rehabilitation. The options are endless.

Rhian Paton-Kelly added you can sign up for a personal or a group challenge.

“Stride your way, wherever you are. Help reduce your own stroke risk and support those in the stroke community at the same time.”

Every dollar raised through Stride4Stroke will have an enormous impact. It will help Stroke Foundation prevent stroke, fund research and support survivors and their families at all stages of the recovery journey.  You can support Gus here,  join his Striding Strong team here. Or register yourself or your own team at www.stride4stroke.org.au

Gus  walking with his stride for stroke t shirt on
 
Image: Survivor of stroke Gus Sabatino will run 210 kilometres during November as part of the Stroke Foundation’s Stride4Stroke campaign. 





















Media contact: Emily Granland m)0408 000 409 e) media@strokefoundation.org.au