Stroke Foundation is marking World Stroke Day (October 29) by encouraging members of the community – of all abilities – to get moving to reduce their stroke risk.
World Stroke Day, marks the official launch of Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity and fundraising campaign Stride4Stroke. Stride4Stroke is a month long campaign, where participants can choose their own physical activity goal to complete, raising awareness of stroke and funds for the Stroke Foundation.
Stroke Foundation Health Promotion Advisory Committee Chair Associate Professor Seana Gall said many participants were using Stride4Stroke as the first step towards increased activity.
“Many of us have been in a slump during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. 2020 has been a tough year on so many levels,” A/Prof Gall said.
“Some people may have found it hard to find the motivation to remain as healthy and active as possible.
“We know being physically active reduces the risk of stroke and other chronic conditions and is beneficial for mental health.”
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said more than 3.1 million Australians were not getting any exercise.
“Most strokes can be prevented by managing blood pressure and cholesterol, eating healthily, being active, not smoking and only drinking alcohol in moderation,” Ms McGowan said.
“Stride4Stroke is a wonderful way to improve our health, feel good and raise money for the Stroke Foundation in the process.”
Stride4Stroke goals can be any shape or form: from running, walking, riding or swimming a set distance to taking a desired number of steps in rehabilitation.
Individuals and groups are invited to get involved. Participants have until the end of November to complete their activity and are reminded to stick to COVID-19 safety guidelines.
Every dollar raised through Stride4Stroke will have an enormous impact. It will go towards Stroke Foundation programs like our free telephone advice service StrokeLine (1800 787 653) and EnableMe, which provides online support services to help survivors and their families transition to life back home after stroke and throughout the recovery journey.
This November join the MoveMent and Stride4Stroke. You will be helping yourself and those in the stroke community. Register now at
