More than 100 people in the Kingston area will work up a sweat for a good cause this November as part of Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity campaign Stride4Stroke.
For the second year in a row, Cheltenham personal trainer Daniel Maitland has created his own “hop-on-hop-off” running event as part of Stride4Stroke. Daniel has encouraged his friends, family and clients to tackle a distance of their choice between 7 and 28 kilometres along Beach Road on November 6.
Daniel is passionate about supporting Stroke Foundation because his beloved sister Bec had a stroke when she was 28 years old.
“Bec was home alone at the time and if it wasn’t for her dog Nala, who managed to rouse her enough to call triple zero (000), we could have lost her,” Daniel said.
“I want to raise awareness in the community that stroke can happen at any age – even in your 20s with your whole life ahead of you, like Bec.
“I have witnessed how challenging Bec’s recovery has been. She’s experienced struggles with disabilities people don’t see like fatigue, memory loss and mental health, but it is encouraging to see her making gains like returning to work part-time.”
Stroke is sudden. It is a devastating disease that strikes the brain. 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 Isaacs federal electorate, approximately 18,000 people are not moving enough,” Mr O’Toole said.
“I thank Daniel for organising this run and for everyone involved for showing such support.
“By being physically active, participants are taking steps to reduce their own stroke risk. Boosting your daily moving minutes can make a difference to prevent stroke and other chronic disease.
“I hope this 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 and can easily be tailored to wherever you are, catering for those affected by coronavirus lockdown restrictions.
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 Daniel and Team TWM here. Or have a go yourself and register now at www.stride4stroke.org.au
Image: Daniel Maitland has organised a Stride4Stroke run to support the Stroke Foundation after his sister Bec experienced a stroke.
