Charity run – Megan Bowie’s uncle Robert Smart pounds course for Stroke Association

Published: 13 August, 2010
by PETER GRUNER

WHEN trainee teacher Megan Bowie was struck down with severe headaches and extreme dizziness she was rushed to hospital.

But the cause of her illness was even more shocking to her than the symptoms. For Megan, 22, from the Angel, Islington, had suffered a stroke.

This Sunday, August 15, Megan’s uncle Robert Smart, 45, will be heading to Finsbury Park to take part in the Stroke Association’s 10K Resolution Run.

Megan suffered the stroke in March. She was in hospital for eight weeks and she continues to receive support from a day centre to help with her rehabilitation.

As a result of her stroke, her speech has been affected and she has some weakness in her right hand. However, she is improving all the time and has recently returned to her part-time job as an assistant at Warehouse in Oxford Street.

Robert said: “I was shocked as I had no idea that people of Megan’s age could have a stroke. I always thought stroke only affected older people.

“We were extremely worried, but Megan is a determined and positive person and she’s shown tremendous progress in her recovery.

“I would like to thank all the staff at the UCH Hospital in Euston and the staff at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery for all their fantastic help and support.”

Robert added: “I’m determined to get round the course in a good time and I’ll look forward to seeing Megan at the finish line.”

Tara Hamdi, events officer at the Finsbury-based Stroke Association, said about 1,500 people in London die as a result of stroke every year and thousands more are living with a severe disability. She said that a stroke can happen to anyone, no matter what their age.

To sponsor Robert, go to www.justgiving.com/Robert-Smart

If you’re interested in taking part in the run visit www.stroke.org.uk/fundraising/fundraising_events or call 020 7566 0311.