A Dundee brother and sister are helping to fundraise for stroke care after the pair almost lost their beloved dad to the “horrible” illness.
Debbie and Ricky Hamilton will take part in next month’s Resolution Run in aid of the Stroke Association at Camperdown Park.
Their dad was struck down by a stroke in September last year at the age of 72, leaving him in a wheelchair and unable to use his arm.
Debbie, 44 said: “It broke our hearts to watch how it has left him in wheelchair partially paralysed and to watch how hard his recovery has been has been really difficult.
“My brother and myself want are running to raise funds to help our Dad and others fight back.”
She added: “We didn’t know anything about strokes until my dad had one.
“A stroke is a horrible thing and the devastating impact of it has been fierce.
“I am taking on the run with my brother Ricky, because our hearts lie with the cause.
“I want to raise awareness and help the charity support others who have had a stroke.”
There are 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK living with devastating wide-ranging disabilities such as speech difficulties, memory loss and mental health issues.
The Stroke Association provides specialist support, funds critical research and campaigns to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives.
Kirsty Scott, fundraising manager at the Stroke Association in Scotland said: “Stroke recovery is a marathon not a sprint and each recovery is as individual as each survivor.
“That’s why we’re encouraging people to join our Resolution Run in Dundee and raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.
“Life after stroke is different for us all, but there is one way we can stand together.
“The Resolution Run is the perfect opportunity to mark a milestone in your own stroke recovery, show your support for a friend or family member affected by stroke, or in memory of a loved one.
“You can run, walk or cheer and choose your distance to suit you. It’s more than a run, it’s a resolution to help rebuild lives after stroke.”
The run will take place on March 8 at 10.30am. Almost £2,000 has so far been raised by those taking part.
Together, Debbie and Ricky have raised over £1000.
Entry fee is £15 and runners can choose their distance with options of a 5K or 10K. All participants will receive a medal at the finish line.
To sign up, visit www.resolutionrun.org.uk, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0300 330 0740.
