Melbourne student’s charity challenge just months after stroke
A Melbourne student who had a stroke at 18 years old will, this weekend, take on a challenge that he says is more difficult than his current chemistry degree.
Declan Styant-Browne is temporarily trading the textbooks for runners, tackling his first long-distance run just eight months after his stroke in March this year.
“I was at work when I started getting a bad headache, blurry vision and I was feeling confused. My co-worker knew something was not right and suggested I go to hospital.”
Declan was immediately taken to emergency. Doctors discovered a blot clot and administered clot-busting drugs within an hour.
“I was completely panicked. I was worried about what would happen afterwards. I didn’t know anyone who had a stroke at 18 and I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to continue studying chemistry or play rugby ever again.”
The now-19-year-old spent a night in the stroke ward and was discharged the next day. He thanks the quick actions of health professionals for his fast recovery and has decided the best way to give back to the stroke community is to run 20km to raise funds for Stroke Foundation.
Pictured: Declan Styant-Browne
The self-proclaimed “non-runner” is among the Melburnians of all ages tying up their laces for Stroke Foundation’s Run4Stroke fundraiser this weekend. Hundreds will pound the pavement, running or walking 20,14,7 or 4km along Mordialloc’s picturesque foreshore, raising funds to prevent stroke, save lives, and enhance recovery for survivors.
Stroke Foundation Executive Director of Fundraising and Development, Rachel Bailey, says every step and every dollar raised will go a long way.
“Every single person taking part in this event is making an impact. Funds raised will go towards prevention programs, survivor support and community awareness and education campaigns. This is a key part of the foundation’s mission to prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery.”
The event is also aimed at getting Victorians moving to reduce their risk of stroke. Stroke Foundation’s latest data shows that 12 per cent of Victorians are physically inactive while 22 per cent of Victorians are living with high blood pressure; two of the key modifiable risk factors of stroke.
“Run4Stroke is a great way to get Victorians active and thinking of fun ways to get moving with the community. 80 per cent of strokes are preventable so why not tie up the laces for a good cause while reducing your risk of stroke at the same time,” Ms Bailey said.