DOREEN’S Joh Barber last month took part in walking fundraiser, helping to raise funds for stroke prevention, research and survivor support.
Hosted by the Stroke Foundation, the Stride4Stroke physical activity campaign tasked participants with walking 5km everyday throughout the month of November.
Ms Barber helped to raise more than $1000 over the month, becoming involved with the campaign due to her father’s stroke earlier this year.
“Unless someone you love has been impacted by stroke, it’s difficult to understand how heart-wrenching it can be,” she 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.”
Stroke is a disease that affects the brain and can impact people of all ages. Fortunately, 80 per cent of strokes can be prevented by managing blood pressure and living a healthy and active lifestyle.
Stroke Foundation Victoria state manager Eamonn O’Toole said one million strokes each year globally were linked to physical inactivity.
“Our research indicates that in any given week, 12 per cent of Australians are not doing any physical activity,” he 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 learn more about Stride4Stroke, visit www.stride4stroke.org.au.
