Caboolture local Alana Farrell will work up a sweat for a good cause this November as part of the Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity campaign Stride4Stroke.
Alana has set herself a challenge to run 5km a day in memory of her beloved mum Gail, who sadly died from stroke in March at the age of 58. Alana wants to raise awareness of the impact of stroke, a disease which has run in her family.
Alana said Gail worked as a nurse at an aged care facility and lived her life helping others.
“Mum was such a caring person and it was devastating to lose her so young,” Alana said.
“Now it is my turn to do something meaningful in her honour by raising funds to support Stroke Foundation programs which will provide researchers with opportunities to find breakthroughs to treat the disease.”
Alana has drummed up the help of family and friends to form the team For Gail- Stride4Stroke. They have already raised more than $400.
Stroke is sudden. It strikes the brain and can impact people of all ages. However, the good news is 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by managing blood pressure and living a healthy, active lifestyle.
Stroke Foundation Queensland State Manager Andrea Sanders said one million strokes each year globally are linked to physical inactivity.
“Our No Postcode Untouched research indicates that in any given week, 12 per cent of Australians are not doing any physical activity. In the Longman federal electorate, it’s estimated almost 30,000 people are not moving enough,” Ms Sanders said.
“I thank Alana for getting involved in Stride4Stroke and leading by example. Boosting your daily moving minutes can make a difference to prevent stroke and other chronic disease.
“I hope her story inspires others in the community to sign up and join the fun. It’s not too late.”
Stride4Stroke is open to anyone who would like to get active – at a safe distance and within coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic guidelines.
Participants are encouraged to set an activity goal to increase their daily ‘moving minutes’. They can choose any activity to complete within the month – from walking, running, swimming, cycling, an online exercise class or a goal in stroke rehabilitation. The options are endless.
Andrea Sanders added, you can sign up for Stride4Stroke as an individual or in a team.
“Stride your way, wherever you are. Help reduce your own stroke risk and support those in the stroke community at the same time.”
Every dollar raised through Stride4Stroke will have an enormous impact. It will help Stroke Foundation prevent stroke, fund research and support survivors and their families at all stages of the recovery journey.
You can support Alana Farrell here or have a go yourself and register now at www.stride4stroke.org.au
