What started off as a casual conversation with my friend and neighbour, Mike, about what fun it would be to do a parachute jump has turned into an opportunity for us to raise money for a very worthwhile cause, the Stroke Association. This is a cause close to my heart as my family has been touched by strokes. Less than 2 years ago my extremely active sister, Sara, had a very severe stroke at the age of 54. She had just taken early retirement from her Child Protection role in the NHS and was living life to the full. With great courage and determination she is working hard to be able to walk again and be independent. And 16 years ago our Dad had a stroke which has left him with speech and communication difficulties. This was particularly challenging for someone who had been a Professor of English Literature and loves words and language. Both our Mum and Aunt have had 'mini strokes'. So I have seen some of the many challenges that strokes can present and I want to do my bit to support the Stroke Association in their important work. Mike says he will be there in a supporting role, to make sure I jump! If you would like to donate to this worthy cause, please visit our JustGiving page: http://www.justgiving.com/owner-email/pleasesponsor/HelenCarrollandMikePoke Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

The Stroke Association works to improve the lives of all touched by stroke. May is Action on Stroke Month 2015.

Based on information supplied by Mike.