Lower Blue Mountains residents are getting moving this month for a very worthy cause.
Stephen Darby, from Glenbrook, experienced a major stroke during surgery in January 2024. Following a lengthy recovery in hospital, Stephen was able to return to some of his favourite hobbies.
"I lost a portion of my brain during the stroke, I had to spend a long time resting and recovering, so once I was able move again, I made the most of it. I haven't let my stroke slow me down, I've just pivoted," Stephen said.
"Moving my body is easy, and it's something I'm good at. I've recently had a cortisone injection in my back to help me keep moving, so this September I'm riding my bike every day for up to an hour and raising money while doing it."
Stephen and his family are among hundreds of Aussies who are taking part in Stroke Foundation's annual fundraiser, Stride4Stroke.
It comes as data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that nearly two in every five Australian adults aged 18-64 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. You can get the family together and walk, run, swim, ride or paddle your way throughout the month. Every minute moved and every dollar raised makes a difference," Dr Murphy said.
Stroke is one of Australia's leading causes of death and disability, with around 46,000 stroke events experienced by Australians of all ages every year. That translates to one stroke every 11 minutes. The single biggest modifiable risk factor for stroke is high blood pressure, with elevated cholesterol, diabetes, excess weight and physical inactivity also contributing risk factors.
"80 per cent of strokes are preventable, so the good news is you can lower your risk of stroke by making healthier changes in your life 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."
