On the run for a cause close to her heart

A STROKE survivor from Tysoe will be taking part in the Stroke Association’s Resolution Run, at Warwick Castle, on Sunday 20th March, to raise money for the charity.

Jacqueline Franklin (pictured) will run the 5km race just three years after having a stroke, aged 51.

In October 2013, fitness enthusiast Jacqueline experienced visual problems and pins and needles in her left side.

Her doctor referred her to Warwick Hospital, but due to her age and good health, Jacqueline’s stroke went undiagnosed.

After returning to work as a florist, Jacqueline was still having problems with her left side and went back to hospital. She spent days undergoing various tests before it was concluded she had had a stroke.

Jacqueline said: “I struggled to accept that I’d had a stroke as I considered myself fit and healthy. I enjoyed running regularly, going to Zumba classes and taking part in boot camps. I’m proof that a stroke can happen to anyone at any time.”

After undergoing physiotherapy to help her throughout her recovery, Jacqueline will take to the grounds of Warwick Castle to complete her first 5km run since her stroke.

She added: “Although I’m recovering well, I still have some problems with weakness in my left side and I get tired much more easily.

“Training for the Resolution Run is hard; running hasn’t come as naturally to me as it did before my stroke, so this will be a real challenge for me. I’ll be raising vital funds for the Stroke Association to help others affected by stroke to get the support they need.”