Stroke Association

Gareth's page

Gareth Thomas

Gareth Thomas

My Story

 

2 years ago I had a stroke which did a factory reset on my brain. My life changed in an instant:  I became partially sighted, couldn't read, recognise numbers, colours, symbols or objects. I was no longer able to do simple tasks and could no longer remember my record collection!  2 years on I'm now able to read (but slowly) and well on the way of doing most things I did before.

The CT scan I had in A&E on the day of my stroke not only showed my brain injury but also showed I had early stage lung cancer. So, in addition to trying to recover from my stroke, I also had a third of my left lung removed. 

Prior to my stroke  I was a keen cyclist and runner. I've had to give up road cycling but I was determined to RUN again.

With amazing support from the NHS, the community stroke team, Bristol After Stroke and the North Bristol Running Group I rediscovered my ability and love of running.

Having taken part in the Great North Run 3 times before my stroke, I'm determined and looking forward to doing it again. Even better - I'm raising funds for the Stroke Association. I'm hoping to exceed my target and give some of my fund raising to Bristol After Stroke. They are a fabulous local charity who not only continue to support my recovery but helped me meet other stroke survivors, share experiences and make new friends.

About the Great North Run

60,000 determined and dedicated runners make the AJ Bell Great North Run the World’s biggest and best half marathon – famous for its warm North East welcome, unbeatable atmosphere and the millions raised for good causes. 

The AJ Bell Great North Run is an opportunity for us all to come together on the 7th September and support one another. Its magic can be hard to understand – until you have experienced it yourself. You’re guaranteed a running event like no other - and a finish line feeling you’ll never forget.

It's not all about the adults, the AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run gives the kids a chance to experience that finish line feeling, earn a special medal & raise money for good causes.

Stroke Association

Raising for:

Stroke Association
116%

Funded

  • Target
    £400
  • Raised so far
    £465
  • Number of donors
    28

My Story

 

2 years ago I had a stroke which did a factory reset on my brain. My life changed in an instant:  I became partially sighted, couldn't read, recognise numbers, colours, symbols or objects. I was no longer able to do simple tasks and could no longer remember my record collection!  2 years on I'm now able to read (but slowly) and well on the way of doing most things I did before.

The CT scan I had in A&E on the day of my stroke not only showed my brain injury but also showed I had early stage lung cancer. So, in addition to trying to recover from my stroke, I also had a third of my left lung removed. 

Prior to my stroke  I was a keen cyclist and runner. I've had to give up road cycling but I was determined to RUN again.

With amazing support from the NHS, the community stroke team, Bristol After Stroke and the North Bristol Running Group I rediscovered my ability and love of running.

Having taken part in the Great North Run 3 times before my stroke, I'm determined and looking forward to doing it again. Even better - I'm raising funds for the Stroke Association. I'm hoping to exceed my target and give some of my fund raising to Bristol After Stroke. They are a fabulous local charity who not only continue to support my recovery but helped me meet other stroke survivors, share experiences and make new friends.

About the Great North Run

60,000 determined and dedicated runners make the AJ Bell Great North Run the World’s biggest and best half marathon – famous for its warm North East welcome, unbeatable atmosphere and the millions raised for good causes. 

The AJ Bell Great North Run is an opportunity for us all to come together on the 7th September and support one another. Its magic can be hard to understand – until you have experienced it yourself. You’re guaranteed a running event like no other - and a finish line feeling you’ll never forget.

It's not all about the adults, the AJ Bell Junior & Mini Great North Run gives the kids a chance to experience that finish line feeling, earn a special medal & raise money for good causes.