A North-West Tasmanian woman will be pounding the pavement with her pram this month, in a bid to raise funds and awareness for Stroke Foundation, in support of her husband who survived two strokes when he was only 22-years-old.
For Sidney Vincent, taking part in the Stride4Stroke challenge is deeply personal. In March 2018, Sidney recognised the warning signs of a stroke when her husband Jake suddenly began experiencing the telltale F.A.S.T. symptoms, including facial droop, and the inability to lift his left arm and leg.
Jake spent weeks in hospital before beginning rehabilitation. He credits his age with helping him recover quickly, and today, at 30, has made a remarkable recovery.
"He's the playing coach for our local cricket club and plays A‑level basketball for the Latrobe Demons. Sport has been instrumental in his recovery, both mentally and physically," Sidney said.
"Our most exciting update is that we now have an 11-month-old daughter who is a happy, healthy and thriving baby. Dorothy is loving Stride4Stroke as she is getting a big outing in the pram every day, even if she does spend a lot of it sleeping."
Sidney plans on walking an hour every day throughout September, she's already raised more than $1,100.
"Our walks are beautiful, we even stop to feed the friendly local horses and cows along the way. It's a simple routine, but it keeps me moving," Sidney said.
"I'm fundraising because Stroke Foundation played a crucial role in supporting our family after Jake's stroke. I want people to know that stroke in young people is a real and growing problem."
It comes as data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows nearly two in five Australian adults aged between 18 and 64 do not meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity (37 per cent).
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says this is a concerning statistic.
"This equates to around 10.5 million Australians who are not getting the recommended amount of physical exercise. Being physically active is important for good health and wellbeing at any age, and is one of the most simple and effective ways you can reduce your risk of stroke."
Dr Murphy is asking all Aussies to get moving this September to reduce their risk of stroke and other chronic conditions.
"Stride4Stroke gives Australians a simple and inclusive way to get moving, raise awareness and help create a future with fewer strokes," Dr Murphy said.
"We know 80 per cent of strokes are preventable, so the good news is you can lower your risk of stroke by getting regular health check-ups with your GP, and making healthier changes such as exercising regularly, quitting smoking, eating a healthy balanced diet and reducing your alcohol intake," Dr Murphy said.
"You can stride anywhere, anytime, and in any way that gets you moving. Just 30 minutes of exercise five times a week can reduce your risk of stroke by 25 per cent; and every dollar raised goes towards vital stroke prevention, research, recovery programs and advocacy."
