Little stroke survivors mum to run Bridge to Brisbane for her son

Toowoomba mum Shyann Coutts will draw inspiration from her little boy Kaizer, who is recovering from three strokes, when she takes part in Bridge to Brisbane (Sunday, August 25).

Four year old Kaizer has had to learn to talk, sit and walk again after his devastating series of strokes in January.

Shyann said although there is still a long way to go, she could not be prouder of what Kaizer has achieved.

“This year has been an emotional roller coaster for the whole family, but Kaizer is made of tough stuff and has thrown himself in to rehabilitation without complaint.

“It’s my turn to make him proud by running Bridge to Brisbane and raising money to support the Stroke Foundation.”

Stroke attacks the brain, the human control centre, changing lives in an instant.

There will be around 373 strokes in the Groom electorate this year alone and more than 3,130 stroke survivors are living in the community.

Stroke Foundation Queensland State Manager Andrea Sanders applauded Shyann’s efforts, adding stroke impacts more children than many people realised.

“In Australia there are approximately 500 infant and childhood strokes each year,” Ms Sanders said.

“Shyann’s positive attitude to her son’s rehabilitation and towards helping Stroke Foundation continue to deliver vital programs for other stroke survivors and their families is to be admired.

“Shyann has already raised more than $600 which is an amazing achievement, and this will help in our mission to prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery.

“Too many lives are being impacted by stroke, but it is treatable and it is beatable.”

More than 70 Bridge to Brisbane participants have chosen the Stroke Foundation as their charity of choice this year.

If you would like to support Shyann visit

Kaizer smiling and holding his ipad

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