Young stroke survivor finishes Resolution Run
LOUGHBOROUGH stroke survivor Ashley Martin has raised £1,000 after joining hundreds of runners at the Stroke Association’s ‘Resolution Run’ in Leicester.
A sea of purple fund-raisers took to Braunstone Park on March 11 to complete a 5k, 10k or 15k course, the event was one of 30 runs organised by the Stroke Association, to raise funds for vital research and to support people affected by strokes.
Ashley Martin, 24, embarked on the 5k run with girlfriend Emma Hackney after surviving a stroke at the age of 17.
He had been taking part in a driving lesson when he felt his left side go numb. Fortunately his instructor knew something was wrong, he was taken to the stroke ward at Leicester Royal Infirmary and has been very fortunate to make a remarkable recovery.
“I have some slight weakness in the fingertips on my left hand, and a little ache and pain now and again on my left side. I attend a local stroke group and have seen how devastating the effects of stroke can be. While it’s been a long road and it took months of physiotherapy to get my movement back, I know I’ve been incredibly lucky.”
So Ashley was one of around 226 people who took part in the Leicester event and said he really enjoyed the occasion.
“We completed the run, which was great fun and we really enjoyed it! It’s been a great experience as a whole, especially with raising so much money. We’ve raised more than £1,000! Completing the Resolution Run has helped me prove that stroke can be beaten. I’m so pleased we’ve been able to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association to help others affected by stroke to get the support they need.”
Georgina Lawrence, community and events fund-raiser at the Stroke Association, said: “Every five minutes across the UK, someone’s life is turned upside down by stroke. By taking part in our Resolution Run, each runner has helped us continue to support stroke survivors and their families as they rebuild their lives. We’re extremely grateful to everyone who took part and to those who volunteered on the day.”