Sunshine resident Stuart Clegg and his daughter Asha will work up a sweat for a good cause this November as part of the Stroke Foundation's annual physical activity campaign Stride4Stroke.
Stuart, who experienced a stroke in August 2016, has set a challenge for he and Asha to cycle for four hours in November to raise funds and reduce their own stroke risk.
The 45-year-old has previously participated in some fundraising activities for Stroke Foundation and said that Stride4Stroke was a good opportunity to get his daughter involved too.
"I was pretty lucky I didn't have any long-term physical side effects from my stroke. But I have experienced fatigue and stroke has taken a toll on me mentally," Stuart said.
"My daughter just got a new bike, so it's a great excuse for us to get out of the house after being in lockdown."
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 Victoria State Manager Eamonn O'Toole 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 Gorton federal electorate, it's estimated more than 19,000 people are not moving enough," Mr O'Toole said.
"I thank Stuart 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 his 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. Eamonn O'Toole 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.
You can support Stuart here or have a go yourself and register now at www.stride4stroke.org.au
Image: Stuart Clegg and his daughter Asha Clegg from Sunshine will cycle this November as part of the Stroke Foundation's Stride4Stroke campaign
