Kilmarnock woman's tribute to late mum who died after suffering fatal stroke

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A Kilmarnock woman has honoured her mother's memory after completing the Great Scottish Run at the weekend.Joan Blackwood completed the challenging run on October 1 after her mum suffered a fatal stroke in July.Joan said she was left feeling "thrilled" after completing the run in one hour and 15 minutes.As part of the run, Joan raised £858 and is hoping to reach her £1,000 target to support the work of the Stroke Association.Joan’s mum had her first stroke around 15 years ago.

The stroke took away her mother’s speech, and Joan saw first-hand how terrifying it can be.Their relationship changed due to her mother’s communication problems, and they weren’t able to enjoy a good blether like they had before.Joan’s mum passed away on July 27, six months after her last stroke.Joan said: “Mum’s life changed overnight with the stroke.

Her lack of communication meant she had to stop enjoying her retirement. Holidays were impossible. She went on to have a further four strokes, sadly passing away from her last in July this year.“I wanted to give back to all those individuals and charities who help other stroke survivors.

And that is why I took part in the run.“I am also passionate about increasing awareness of stroke and believe taking part in the Great Scottish Run was some way towards doing that.“I know my mum would have been proud to see me undertake this challenge and I was determined to cross the finish line.”Emma Daley, events manager at the Stroke Association said: “We were honoured to have Joan taking part in this challenge, so soon after her mother’s death.