Uk Stroke Survivors Fundraiser JO'G-LE

Hello, my name is Stephen Ellis, in March 2022 I suffered a stroke and was very fortunate to survive. The stroke devastated my life at the time and completely changed my life plans. Since suffering the stroke, I have spent the past year recovering from its effects.

In the following months, I was invited to join a local stroke survivors’ group. Being part of this group was invaluable to my recovery, meeting people who had faced the same trauma as I had. The group helped me come to terms with the new challenges I faced, it also opened my eyes to how having a stroke can completely change lives. Not just for the person who had the stroke, but the effects on their families and loved ones too.

Spending time with other stroke survivors has inspired me to do something to make a difference. So, this year on the 1st of May 2023, I am walking from John O’ Groats to Lands End. This walk will be a fundraiser to generate much needed donations for the Acute Stroke Ward at Calderdale Royal Hospital in Halifax West Yorkshire. The fundraiser will also be donating to The Calderdale Stroke Support Group. This is a community support charity based in Halifax West Yorkshire, which provides the much-needed help and resources for local stroke survivors just like me.

Since I had the stroke, I have spent over a year planning and preparing for this challenge as part of my recovery. I have put in many months of training, to ensure that I am ready for the arduous 1,200 mile walk ahead of me.

I want to turn this journey into a positive message for other stroke victims and survivors across the UK, I also hope this walk helps generate greater understanding and public awareness of the many challenges that stroke victims and their families face following a stroke.

I have realised in surviving; I have been given a second chance in life. This walk will represent my reason to live.

I will be logging my journey on social media (Facebook and Instagram) and would love to invite anyone who would like to take part and walk with me at any part of this challenge. I will update my location and a meeting point for anyone who would like to join in.

Wish me luck, and please donate generously to these worthy causes to ensure they can continue doing their incredible work