Harrogate stroke survivor treks 100 miles in May to raise cash for charity

Liz Walker, 60, and the team from Kingswood Surgery, where she is a practice manager, were inspired to fundraise for the Stroke Association as their charity of the year.

Liz and the practice partner Ruth Kirby kickstarted the fundraising by each walking 100 miles throughout the month of May. They also organised a Wear It Purple day at the surgery on May 26, when everyone donned purple to show their support for the charity.

Liz said: “Whilst out walking the dogs with my husband John on Easter Saturday 2019, I had a stroke. My husband thankfully recognised the symptoms immediately and with the help of some fast-acting neighbours he managed to get me to the hospital straight away. I was taken to Leeds General Infirmary and was lucky enough to receive ground-breaking thrombolysis treatment within 90 minutes of my symptoms starting. Because of the quick treatment I received, I was able to return to work after a couple of months and I’m now able to lead a normal life.

“I’m thrilled that Kingswood Surgery has chosen the Stroke Association this year and will be supporting them throughout the year. We want to raise as much as possible to help others affected by stroke to get the support they need.”

Adrian Greenwood, fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “A stroke can happen to anyone at any time and it turns lives upside down. However, with the support of people like Liz and the team at Kingswood Surgery we can help more stroke survivors and their families.”

To sponsor the team, visit: www.justgiving.com/team/KingswoodSurgery.