Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity fundraiser Stride4Stroke kicks off today and Victorians are being encouraged to get moving any way they can.
It is estimated more than 7,000 Victorians will have a stroke for the first time this year despite 80 percent of strokes being preventable. Nationally, more than three million Australians are physically inactive, putting them at greater risk of stroke and other chronic disease.
The month-long campaign accommodates people of all ages and abilities and can be completed by either individuals or teams. Participants set their own activity and fundraising goals, completing the challenge within the month of November.
The focus in 2022 is on increasing ‘moving minutes’ which is an accessible and achievable goal for everyone whether they are walking, running, cycling, doing online fitness classes or setting a movement goal.
Stroke Foundation Executive Director Marketing John De Rango applauded the Victorians who have already signed up to take part in Stride4Stroke this year.
“It is amazing to see so many people using Stride4Stroke as an opportunity to focus on their health and to get moving during the month of November,” Mr De Rango said.
“We know that globally, one million strokes a year are linked to physical inactivity, this means too many lives are being impacted by stroke unnecessarily.
When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute and can change lives in an instant.
If you suspect someone is having a stroke, think F.A.S.T. and ask these questions:
• F stands for Face – Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
• A stands for Arms – Can they lift both arms?
• S stands for Speech – Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
• And T stands for Time – Time is critical. If you see any of these signs, call triple 000 straight away.
Mr De Rango said every dollar raised from the national event will go towards fighting stroke and supporting survivors and their families.
“Every dollar raised will have such a huge impact and leave a lasting legacy. It will help us prevent stroke in Victoria, fund research and support survivors and their families through their recovery journey,” he said.
“It’s not too late to sign up and take part. You can still sign up to be involved, make a positive impact in your community and reduce your own stroke risk.”
Visit www.stride4stroke.org.au to register.
