Becky Hinks

I'm taking part in the TCS London Marathon 2027 with #TeamStroke

In 2021, I had a stroke, and my life changed forever.

At just 24 years old, I was young, healthy and active. When I suddenly developed face weakness, arm weakness, slurred speech and the worst headache of my life, stroke was the last thing on my mind. But it was a stroke.

I suffered an ischaemic stroke, caused by a blood clot blocking blood flow to part of my brain. Despite years of tests and investigations, doctors have never been able to determine exactly why it happened.

The Stroke Association was there when I needed them most. They provide support, information and reassurance to stroke survivors and their families, whilst also funding vital research into stroke prevention, treatment and recovery.

A few years later, I had the privilege of working for the Stroke Association myself. Seeing their work from the inside showed me just how much of a difference they make to people whose lives have been turned upside down by stroke.

2021 was the year my life changed.

2026 is the year I marry my best friend and celebrate my 30th birthday.

And in 2027, I will finally achieve a dream I've had for years – running the London Marathon for the Stroke Association.

This won't be my first marathon. In 2023, I proudly completed both the Brighton Marathon and the Berlin Marathon to raise money for the Stroke Association. But London has always held a special place in my heart. For many runners, running the London Marathon is the dream, and I still can't quite believe I'll be standing on that start line.

Every mile I run will be for stroke survivors, their families, and everyone whose life has been affected by stroke. I know first-hand that stroke can happen to anyone, at any age, and I want to help ensure that nobody faces it alone.

If you're able to support me, I would be incredibly grateful. My goal is to raise as much money as possible so that the Stroke Association can continue providing life-changing support and funding vital research.

Thank you for supporting me on this journey - from having a stroke in 2021, to running the London Marathon in 2027.

Becky ❤️