Dear Editor

Like so many others, stroke has left a really devastating legacy on my family. My dad died of a stroke and his dad, my grandfather, had a major stroke which left him unable to speak again.

But many people don't realise that the vast majority of strokes – around 80-90% in fact - are preventable, which is why I'm supporting the Stroke Association's Stride for Stroke campaign as my New Year's resolution.

I exercise regularly, try to eat healthily and keep an eye on my blood pressure, which are all ways to help lower your risk of stroke – but there's more we can all do…

So this year, the charity is challenging stroke survivors, their families or carers, in fact, everyone that's affected by this devastating condition, to walk 1.3 million steps, that's one step for every stroke survivor in the UK today.

I know that might sound like a lot but it's actually the recommended 10,000 steps a day for 130 days, so it's much more manageable when you break it down.

Stroke strikes every five minutes in the UK and it changes lives in an instant. However, with our support, the Stroke Association can help more stroke survivors and their families find hope and rebuild their lives.

So come on, if you're looking for a New Year's resolution that will make a huge difference, why not take on the Stride for Stroke challenge? Sign up today at www.stroke.org.uk/stride

Thank you and Happy New Year,

Vogue Williams

*Send us a letter, news article, feature or photographs by using the black Nub It button, which you will find on the home page menu bar.