Shape up for charity's Resolution Run

Many New Year resolutions focus on personal improvements like quitting smoking, eating healthier or joining a gym. But too often these fail by the end of January.

That’s why the Stroke Association is encouraging people to make a pledge which lasts by signing up to a 5k, 10k or 15k Resolution Run on Sunday 23 March at Escot Park, Devon. This is one of 19 Resolution Runs taking place across the UK. These fun events provide the perfect motivation to get back in shape before the summer and support a vital cause.

Annabel Jones was 22 when she had a stroke. She explained:

“I felt like my life had been taken away from me. I’m now 40% blind and suffered with crippling depression. The Stroke Association helped me get my life back. They answered my many questions and gave me all the support I needed to pick myself up and not let the stroke defeat me. Even though there are some things I will never be able to do again, there are also many new things for me to try. My ultimate aim is to raise as much awareness and money as possible for the Stroke Association so that others have access to the help that I had."

“Taking part in a Resolution Run for the Stroke Association is a great way to keep fit and healthy while raising money for the charity’s work supporting thousands of people like me.”

At least half of strokes could be prevented if people made simple lifestyle changes, such as keeping blood pressure under control and exercising more.

Alessandra Arnott, Event Officer at the Stroke Association added:

“Many of our New Year Resolutions focus on key personal improvements like quitting smoking, eating healthier or joining a gym. But too often these fail by the end of January. I hope people in Devon will sign up to a 5k, 10k or 15k Resolution Run."

“Runners of any ability are welcome and can choose their own pace and distance. The money raised will fund vital research and support as well as help to prevent people from having a stroke.”

All runners receive a free t-shirt, medal, music, a warm up and warm down, water stations and MP3 Players for the top three fundraisers. Entry fee is just £12.50. For more information about entering or volunteering, visit www.stroke.org.uk/resolution, email resolution@stroke.org.uk or call 0117 911 5471.