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Cairns man Troy Elliot is working up a sweat for a good cause this November as part of the Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity campaign Stride4Stroke.

Troy has a strong connection to stroke. Two family members have experienced strokes this year and his grandmother sadly died from a stroke at the age of 62.

Troy has set himself a challenge to push his wheelchair for 1200 minutes to raise awareness of stroke.

“I’ve taken part in Stride4Stroke because too many people are impacted by stroke and this needs to change,” Troy said.

“I am also passionate about supporting the Stroke Foundation because of the excellent work they do to spread the word about the most common signs of stroke (F.A.S.T) and to ensure people have the information they need after a stroke to help the recovery journey.”

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 Queensland State Manager Andrea Sanders said one million strokes each year globally are linked to physical inactivity.

“Our research indicates that in any given week, 12 per cent of Australians are not doing any physical activity. In the Leichardt federal electorate, it’s estimated more than 27,600 people are not moving enough,” Ms Sanders said.

“I thank Troy 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.

Andrea Sanders 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.

Or have a go yourself and register now at

Image: Troy Elliot from Cairns is taking part in the Stroke Foundation’s Stride4Stroke campaign this November.