I'm taking part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon 2026 as part of #TeamStroke
I joined #TeamStroke for the Royal Parks Half Marathon 2026.
## My Story
Most of you know that an MRI a couple of years ago revealed I’d previously had a stroke. Since then, doctors found two underlying risk factors: a hole in my heart (a PFO) and antiphospholipid syndrome. Thankfully, both are now managed with Warfarin, under the watchful eye of my amazing anti-coagulation team.
Physically, I am incredibly lucky. While I deal with some brain fog and short-term memory issues, the mental toll has been the hardest part. Being told at 38 that you’ve had a stroke—and that a second one could be fatal or life-altering—is a tough pill to swallow. For two years, I’ve vacillated between being ultra-healthy and adopting a "you only live once, eat the cake" mentality.
Finding Balance Through Running
Running is the one thing that keeps me grounded. I’m not fast, and I won’t be winning any medals, but spending a couple of hours plugged into an audiobook brings my brain and body into perfect homeostasis. It makes me feel like I’m winning at life.
Why I'm Running for the Stroke Association
I believe I actually had my stroke at age 16. I collapsed while making dinner, my face dropped, and my speech slurred. Yet at A&E, we were told it was likely "just a migraine" due to my age, and we were sent home.
Fast forward to the accidental discovery of my brain damage years later, and the contrast is stark. Now, specialists treat me with kid gloves, and the stroke team didn't stop investigating until they found answers.
Excellent, thorough stroke care shouldn't depend on luck, your age, or which hospital you happen to walk into.
The Reality of Stroke in the UK
* **100,000** strokes happen in the UK every year—that's one every five minutes.
* There are over **1.4 million** stroke survivors currently rebuilding their lives.
The Stroke Association believes everyone deserves the best possible care and support to rebuild their lives. They rely entirely on donations to fund vital services, campaign for better care, and research preventative treatments.
If you are able to donate, your support will help ensure that future stroke survivors get the immediate, life-saving answers they deserve. Thank you so much!
