Stroke survivor to take the biggest step

Grandfather of two, Graham Bircham, 65, from Bretton had a devastating stroke in June 2012 whilst home alone. The stroke left Graham unable to swallow, walk or talk. Graham’s stroke was so severe that doctors warned his family he might not survive.

But now he is taking part in the Stroke Association’s Step out for Stroke event at Ferry Meadows Country Park on June 12.

Graham’s daughter, Sarah, said: “Unfortunately, the stroke left dad unable to carry out most of the activities that he previously enjoyed like reading, driving, photography, and gardening. He has had to adapt, take life at a slower pace and find new hobbies. He’s now an active member of his local boccia and bowls teams.

“Dad made a lot of progress in the first year following his stroke and he’s worked hard to be able to walk again and use his right arm.

“When we think back to the first few months following his stroke, we are amazed at the progress that he has made. He continues to work hard to try to improve his speech, language and numerical skills.

“Although dad finds it exhausting to walk more than a mile, he can walk short distances and tries to walk most days.

“The Step out for Stroke event will be a challenge for him, but we are keen to raise as much money as we can for the Stroke Association, to help others in my dad’s situation and to give thanks for the support that we’ve received.”

George Burroughs, Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “Step out for Stroke is a fun walk that everyone can be part of, no matter what your age or fitness level. We’re hugely grateful to Graham for joining us for this year’s event.

“Every step makes a difference, and we want Step out for Stroke 2016 to be our biggest year yet.”

For more information on the Step out for Stroke event, or to enter, visit www.stroke.org.uk/stepout