Stroke really is such a cruel condition. Sadly we have all heard of someone who has been affected by stroke and many people like me have tragically lost someone too.

Almost five years ago my wonderful Mum, Diana, suffered a severe stroke. She died four weeks later. My Mum was the most active, ‘full of life’ person I knew. She LOVED life. She was my best friend and I miss her every day.

That’s why I want to ask your readers to take part in the Stroke Association’s, A Walk to Remember.

This wonderful event is a special way to celebrate the life of your loved one whilst raising money in their memory. Simply pick a special place that is filled with memories, create your route and on June 27 take part in your own walk to remember to raise funds for the Stroke Association

Stroke strikes every five minutes in the UK, and there are around 1.2 million survivors living with its devastating effects – stroke survivors, their families and carers really need our help.

Like so many charities, the pandemic has drastically affected the Stroke Association’s income. However the charity has still been supporting stroke survivors as much as they can with support and advice, while continuing to fund vital research into the condition.

Please join me and do something amazing in your loved one’s memory by taking part in A Walk to Remember. It’s bound to be an emotional but amazing day for all of us that have lost someone to stroke.

Walk in their memory and raise funds to rebuild more lives after stroke. To sign up, please visit www.stroke.org.uk/fundraising/a-walk-to-remember

KATHERINE DOW BLYTON, Actress

On behalf of the Stroke Association