Heathcote stroke survivor ready to Stride4Stroke

A Heathcote local, who has vowed to live her life to the fullest after having a stroke, will work up a sweat for a good cause this November as part of the Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity campaign Stride4Stroke.

Stacey Grapsas, experienced a stroke last year at the age of 27. She has set herself a challenge to exercise for 90 minutes every day in November as her Stride4Stroke activity.

Stacey said having a stroke was the scariest moment of her life.

“I was at work at the time and collapsed without warning,” she said.

“I am so grateful to my colleagues who helped me that day and for all of the ongoing love and support from my family and friends.

“I want people to know that stroke can happen to anyone at any age. I still experience some fatigue and can’t always find the right words, but I am thankful to be alive and to have made a near-full recovery. I now want to turn my attention to helping others with stroke.”

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 New South Wales State Manager Rhian Paton Kelly 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 Cunningham federal electorate, it’s estimated more than 20,000 people are not moving enough,” Ms Paton-Kelly said.

“I thank Stacey 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.

Rhian Paton-Kelly 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 Stacey here. Or have a go yourself and register now at www.stride4stroke.org.au


Stacy is smiling. She is at the gym and is wearing purple the gym equipment is behind her

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