Beaudesert woman Sharni Currie is working up a sweat for a good cause this November as part of the Stroke Foundation's annual physical activity campaign Stride4Stroke.
Sharni, whose dad and uncle have both experienced strokes, has set herself a challenge to walk for 1,200 minutes to raise funds for Stroke Foundation and reduce her own stroke risk in the process.
The 30-year-old has formed the team "Doing it for the legends" and said she wants to raise awareness of the disease by participating in Stride4Stroke after seeing the impact it has had on people she loves.
"My uncle suffered a severe stroke last year and my dad has also had three minor strokes, so it's in my family," Sharni said.
Stroke is sudden. It is a devastating disease that strikes the brain and can impact people of all ages. However, the good news is 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by managing blood pressure and living a healthy, active lifestyle.
Stroke Foundation Queensland State Manager Andrea Sanders 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 Wright federal electorate, it's estimated 26,500 people are not moving enough," Ms Sanders said.
"I thank Sharni 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 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. Andrea Sanders 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.
