Registrations are now open for Stride4Stroke , Stroke Foundation’s uplifting physical activity fundraiser, which anyone can tackle in or out of COVID-19 lockdown.
Stride4Stroke starts on Monday November 1 and participants are encouraged to get moving to reduce their stroke risk. All they have to do is choose an activity that raises a sweat to complete anywhere and anytime within the month. Funds are raised through donations towards their efforts.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said activities can include walking, running, riding, online fitness classes, rehabilitation exercises – anything that increases ‘moving minutes’.
“Stroke is a largely preventable disease and keeping healthy and active are key factors in curbing your risk,” Ms McGowan said.
“Worryingly, more than 3.1 million Australians are not getting enough physical activity. To make matters more challenging, we are living in uncertain times – and we all know it can be difficult to stay motivated to move.
“However, this pandemic has taught us to re-imagine the way we carry out our daily activities, so I am looking forward to seeing people get creative with their Stride4Stroke goals this year and use the opportunity to start to make positive lifestyle changes for the future.”
A stroke can happen at any age, striking the brain. Stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers and a leading cause of disability. Its impact is felt well beyond the individual to partners, families and wider communities.
Every dollar raised from Stride4Stroke will help Stroke Foundation prevent stroke, fund research and support survivors and their families at all stages of the recovery journey.
Stephanie Mitchell is among those ready to Stride4Stroke this November, celebrating 21 years since her stroke by swimming and walking 1,860 minutes or the equivalent of 155 kilometres.
“I was 28 years old, I had been married for three months and had big plans for the future when I had a stroke,” Stephanie said.
“It changed my world dramatically. I was in a ward with people who were much older than me with no information to meet my stage of life and no counselling. It was frightening. I had to learn to walk and move my left side again, which took months of rehabilitation.
“But I want people to know there is life after stroke. I have raised two children and there are now better treatments and tailored resources and programs available for younger people to help in their recoveries.
“I want to raise funds through Stride4Stroke to help Stroke Foundation continue its incredible work to support research and survivors of stroke now and into the future.”
This November, clock up your moving minutes (inside or outside your home), have some fun and feel the benefits to your mental health by taking part in Stride4Stroke.
Anyone of any age or ability can sign up. Activities do not need to be strenuous and individuals and group challenges are welcome. Stride your way, wherever you are. Help reduce your own stroke risk and support those in the stroke community at the same time.
Register now at Activities must be carried out at a safe distance and within COVID-19 guidelines.
