Doreen locals father inspires her to Stride4Stroke

Doreen resident Joh Barber will work up a sweat for a good cause this November as part of the Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity campaign Stride4Stroke.

Joh has set herself a challenge to walk 5km a day throughout November, inspired by her father Arnold who used to love going for long walks before experiencing a stroke in March this year.

Joh said her dad’s stroke came as a complete shock.

“Unless someone you love has been impacted by stroke, it’s difficult to understand how heart-wrenching it can be,” Joh said.

“Dad’s life changed in an instant. He was permanently paralysed down one side of his body and was not able to return home because he required full time care. You grieve for the loss of the person you once knew.

“I am doing Stride4Stroke to raise awareness of this disease and help other people and their families.”

Stroke is sudden. It is a devastating disease that 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 Victoria State Manager Eamonn O’Toole 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 McEwen federal electorate, it’s estimated more than 17,000 people are not moving enough,” Mr. O’Toole said.

“I thank Joh 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. 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.

Eamonn O’Toole added you can sign up for a personal or a group challenge.

“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 Joh Barber here. Or have a go yourself and register now at www.stride4stroke.org.au

Joanna hugging and smiling at her Dad at her wedding

Image: Johanna Barber from Doreen will walk 5km every day during November as part of the Stroke Foundation’s Stride4Stroke campaign

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