A REDDITCH stroke survivor who was told he would never walk again is setting off on a huge personal challenge across Cornwall later this month.
Steve Fitter suffered a major stroke in June 2013, affecting his life massively as he was used to working long hours as an IT project manager and was a frequent and keen runner, swimmer and long-distance cyclist.
The devastating event had an extreme impact on Steve’s life but although he has defied the doctors and made a good physical recovery, he has been left with aphasia, affecting his ability to communicate, and has no movement on his right side.
However Steve, aged 58, is determined to overcome his illness and is preparing to run and cycle alone across Cornwall at different Park Run locations, setting off next Monday (May 15), in a bid to help him regain his freedom since his stroke.
He’s chosen to complete the challenge in May to coincide with the Stroke Association’s national awareness month, ‘Make May Purple.’
Christy Weatherby, life after stroke coordinator at the Stroke Association, Bromsgrove, said: “After a stroke, around one in three people like Steve have difficulty communicating, which can be both terrifying and isolating.
“Because of his aphasia, Steve’s trip will be a real challenge, especially when travelling and talking to the public and will mark a huge milestone to his recovery,” she added.
Make May Purple for Stroke and the Stroke Association is calling for people across Bromsgrove to join thousands of others going purple to show support for people affected by strokes.
To get involved with Make May Purple, visit http://bit.ly/2opr7om to help change the story for stroke survivors.
