It’s been almost three years since Clyde resident Clive Kempson suffered a stroke, which changed his life without warning.
Clive was petrified immediately after his stroke, as he had speech problems and no use of his right arm or leg. But after ongoing rehabilitation and thanks to plenty of determination, Clive continues to make progress in his recovery.
This November, Clive will Stride4stroke to raise awareness of the disease and raise money for the Stroke Foundation.
Clive said he was passionate about giving back to the Stroke Foundation to help improve outcomes and supports for others who have a stroke in the future.
“There are not enough people who know about stroke and there are not enough people who talk about it. I’m hoping I can start some important conversations,” Clive said.
“The beauty of Stride4stroke is you can set your own physical activity goal. My dog and I will aim to walk 60 kilometres throughout November.”
According to the Stroke Foundation, research shows, one in six people will have a stroke in their lifetime. It can strike at any age, impacting children, teenagers and adults.
Stroke attacks the brain – the human control centre. There will be more than 300 strokes in the LaTrobe area in 2018 alone, but it can be treated and it can be beaten.
Clive encouraged the Casey community to follow his lead by taking part in Stride4stroke themselves or donating to his efforts.
“Most of the people I know have a personal connection to stroke – whether it be a parent, grandparent, friend or colleague,’’ he said.
“I ask our community, who will you stride for this November?”
Stride4stroke is open to all ages and abilities and participants will reduce their own stroke risk by being physically active.
Stroke Foundation chief executive Sharon McGowan said every dollar raised through Stride4stroke would have an impact.
“Funds raised will go towards vital Stroke Foundation programs like StrokeLine (1800 787 653) and follow up services to help survivors and their families transition to life after,” Ms McGowan said.
This November, join Clive and register for Stride4stroke www.stride4stroke.org.au Do it by yourself or grab some mates and form a team to keep you motivated.
