Caroline Garde - TCS London Marathon 2027 with #TeamStroke
In March 2026, at 29 years old, I experienced an "eye stroke" or Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO) causing the sudden and likely permanent loss of vision in my left eye.
It came completely out of the blue. I was healthy, active and had none of the typical risk factors associated with stroke. Within minutes, I had lost the majority of vision in my left eye.
What has stayed with me most since this happened is how little we still understand about why strokes happen in younger people and how limited the options are once they do. While I've been incredibly fortunate to retain my independence and continue doing things I love, the experience has given me a whole new appreciation for the impact stroke can have on individuals and families.
Rather than letting this hold me back, I want to continue to challenge myself. Running the London Marathon is about proving that life can still move forward after a life-changing event. The following weekend, I'll also be taking on the Dublin Half Marathon, and if you know me well you know I will be complaining the entire way around (on both weekends).
Every day, hundreds of people wake up to the devastating impact of stroke. By supporting my fundraising, you'll be helping the Stroke Association provide vital support to stroke survivors and their families, fund life-changing research and campaign for better care and outcomes for anyone impacted.
Thank you so much for your support, it really means a lot to me.
