David Merrigan had a stroke seven years ago, aged just 46 and since 2017 he has gone over and above as a vital fundraiser for Different Strokes. A keen runner, he has taken part in numerous running events including the Virgin Sport 10K, Great North Run 2017, Reclaim Abseil 2019, Great North Run 2019 and rather amazingly he still has the energy to enter two HUGE runs this year. Firstly, returning to the Great North Run and then in the autumn he puts on his running shoes again for the London Marathon!
Not only has he ran thousands of miles, but he has also raised thousands of pounds to ensure that fellow younger stroke survivors can get the support that they need. As if this wasn’t enough, David also donates to Different Strokes every month through the payroll giving scheme at his work, attends our monthly quizzes and has offered to come along and volunteer at our abseil coming up in September.
It takes a very special person to dedicate so much time and effort to a cause that they care about and David is this person! David was nominated for his unrelenting support, even entering our dog competition to support us in 2020- despite not having a dog!! Following heart surgery in May, David has worked his fundraising and fitness goals in as part of his recovery . As many of you know Different Strokes receives no government funding so fundraisers like David are a vital part of why we can continue to operate. We cannot thank David enough for all he has done and continues to do for the charity.
We caught up with him and asked him why he got involved and how he feels about his award.
Congratulations David! Can you tell us how and why you fundraise for Different Strokes?
“I had a stroke 7 years ago and it took about two years for me to get running again. It started with walking, then eventually I was able to run. In 2016 I thought well, If I am doing these runs, then I may as well raise money at the same time! Different Strokes has been fantastic for me and my recovery and I really couldn’t think of a better charity to raise money for so that’s who I chose.
I have done a combination of running events but I also try to support other activities where I can!”
What do you like about fundraising?
“Fundraising for me has been a great way to get motivated – people are using their hard-earned money to sponsor me – which means no matter what I really have to push myself and go for it!
I have personally benefitted from the great work that Different Strokes , so, being able to support the charity to continue doing what they do is really very important to me.”
How do you feel about being our Fundraising Hero 2021?
“Amazed, absolutely amazed!”
What is your next challenge?
My next challenge is The London Marathon 2021. Training has started but proper training starts next week, which will look like four runs a week which gradually increase in distance. By October, I will be running half marathons every week.
I feel like this is a good chance to mention that people can sponsor me, my target is £1000 and anyone who is in a position to do so, can by clicking HERE.
How do you physically do all of this?!
I am lucky in that I wasn’t badly physically impacted by my stroke, more the cognitive side but I ache all of the time!! I do find running is positive for my mental health and I am always up for a challenge!
We hope you will join us in congratulating David on his well-deserved award and wish him well for his upcoming training! What a guy!