Mum’s mission to honour stroke heroes

A Queensland mum who was last year awarded a major accolade for her work for the stroke community is urging others to nominate worthy contenders for the 2023 Stroke Foundation Stroke Awards.

Nicola Baker was named the 2022 Fundraiser of the Year after raising almost $5,000 during Stroke Foundation’s physical activity campaign, Stride4Stroke.

The Stroke Awards recognise the incredible individuals in our community who strive to make the future brighter for people impacted by stroke. The Fundraiser of the Year category particularly recognises those who have gone above and beyond in fundraising for the Stroke Foundation, which is more than 70 per cent funded by public donations.

Nicola’s now 19-year-old son Jed experienced a life changing stroke when he was 11 months old. He was later diagnosed with a rare brain condition called MoyaMoya. So passionate about the cause, Nicola created her own foundation and has helped raised funds and awareness about the disease.

“It was an honour for me to be nominated for the award. I love doing work for Stroke Foundation and to have somebody recognise that means a lot to me,” Ms Baker said.

“I love the support that I’ve received over the years, I’ve made some very dear friends in the stroke community and made some invaluable relationships. So much has changed since Jed’s first stroke in September 2004. Back then we thought stroke was something that happened to the elderly. Since that time, we have managed to educate and inform many people.”

“They are shocked to hear my baby had a stroke. It was a very big thing to have gone through. I’m so thankful he’s still here. Jed has a future, he’s taller than me and has recently graduated year 12."

The Stroke Awards are open to survivors of stroke, carers, volunteers, fundraisers, health professionals and researchers.

There are six award categories this year including the Stroke Warrior Award, Courage Award, Creative Award, Fundraiser of the Year Award, Improving Life after Stroke Award and the Volunteer of the Year Award.

Nomination close on February 17. Winners will be announced at the Stroke Foundation Stroke Awards on Thursday, May 4. Nominate today via the Stroke Foundation website.