A ROSSENDALE stroke survivor will take on at gruelling challenge just over a year after his life was thrown into disarray.

Paul Medcalfe, 42, from Crawshawbooth, is preparing to tackle the Kendal Triathlon Sprint on September 27, just 15 months after having a stroke.

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The father-of-two, was on an early-morning run last June while working away in London when he lost his balance and collapsed.

The stroke affected Paul’s right-hand side and he was unable to walk but, determined to get back on the road to recovery, he underwent intensive physiotherapy.

He still has mild aphasia, a condition affecting a person’s communication, and damage to his nervous system but Paul has started to regain his mobility.

Having previously completed triathlons, including Olympic-length distances, Paul was inspired to sign up for the event to prove just how far he has come in his recovery and to raise funds for the Stroke Association.

The triathlon — at Kendal Leisure Centre — includes a 400m swim, an 18km bike ride and a 5km run and he has been preparing with Rossendale Triathlon Club.

Paul said: “Luckily I was fit before my stroke, which seems to have played a part in my recovery.

“Afterwards I just wanted to return to doing the things I loved and was keen to set goals for myself.

“Taking part in the Kendal Triathlon Sprint will mark an important milestone in my continuing recovery.

“I’m working hard to make progress and the support I’ve had from my family and friends has been fantastic.

“My two sons, Harry and Ben, have also been helping me with my training.”

There are around 152,000 strokes in the UK every year and it is the leading cause of severe adult disability.

There are over 1.2 million people in the UK living with the effects of stroke.

He added: “I didn’t realise strokes can affect people of any age and I’m keen to raise awareness so more people understand the condition.

“The Stroke Association has been a lifeline and has given me lots of encouragement so I can enjoy life.

“I hope by supporting them, other families can get the help I was lucky enough to have received.”

To sponsor, visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MeddersTri. For details about stroke, ring 0303 30 33 100 or visit: stroke.org.uk