Ismaeel, 11 Raises £700 for Stroke Group that Helped Mum

“My name is Ismaeel. I am 11 years old. I am raising money for Birmingham and Sandwell Different Strokes Group. They are a charity that helps young stroke survivors, post-stroke, through hosting regular community events, such as arts and crafts sessions, exercise classes, and support for the whole family.

The work they do is vital in the community and is a lifeline for many stroke survivors. This charity is close to my heart, as I have personally been affected. My mum suffered a stroke when I was 2 and she was in her thirties. She has physical and cognitive disabilities as a result.

I have been attending the Different Strokes group in Birmingham Sandwell since I was 4 years old. The group is run by Ingrid, a volunteer who had a stroke herself at a young age.

I have learned that stroke does not discriminate against age and that children and young people can also suffer a stroke.

I will be doing a 5-mile walk on Sunday 26th of June to raise funds to help my local Different Strokes group. Any amount I can raise will help them continue to provide vital support for young stroke survivors, showing them that there is life after stroke and helping them reclaim their lives.

The money raised will be used to fund therapeutic activities, including arts and crafts, music, exercise, and support sessions for families, just like mine.”

Ingrid, 42, is the Group Coordinator for the Different Strokes Birmingham Sandwell group, which meets weekly in Smethwick. She had a stroke herself aged 27. At the time, she had a 2-year-old and was 30 weeks pregnant with her second daughter. She shares:

“As a Mum who had young children when I had my stroke, it has been so important to me that our Different Strokes group in Birmingham includes the whole family. A stroke happens to one person, but has a huge impact on everyone around them and can affect their loved ones in many different ways.”

“Ismaeel and his family joined us when he was a young child and it has been my absolute pleasure to watch him grow up and mature from a little boy, into a wonderful young man.

He has always been so friendly, helpful, and supportive of the group. He welcomes new families and makes a real effort to chat with and get to know others in the group. Due to his own experiences, he has such an understanding and respect for other people and their situations. He is a pleasure to know and always has that lovely smile on his face!”

“It was quite emotional when I found out his plans to raise money for our group. I established the group myself 12 years ago with the support of national charity Different Strokes. The charity was founded by and for people affected by stroke at a younger age and we all support each other with the difficulties that come with life after a stroke.”

“I am so thankful to everyone who has donated to Ismaeel so far. We provide lots of activities for local families and we want to help more people affected by stroke. This fundraising boost will really have an impact! Every donation will also make Ismaeel’s gorgeous smile even bigger – what more could we ask for?!”

UPDATE:

On 26th June Ismaeel completed his challenge and he raised an amazing £700!! We love this triumphant picture! What a truly incredible young man – we know everyone is so proud of him! We have loved following his mission! Our Birmingham Sandwell group will make such good use of the funds raised to hold more activities for families affected by stroke in the area.