Shenaed Bliss

I’m taking on the challenge of Stride4Stroke and raising funds for Stroke Foundation!

Hi everybody,

On the 23 January 2024, I had a stroke.  

I was only 35 years old, with 2 kids – Archer was 3, and Florien was 1. This was a major change in my life, as well as my husband’s and family’s life, mostly due to aphasia. Aphasia is a brain-based communication disorder that affects a person's ability to speak, understand, read, and write, but does not affect their intelligence. Although I have made huge improvements, and I’m able to work, things take time and many of my symptoms are invisible to others.  

I’ve decided to do the Stride4Stroke again, raising funds for Stroke Foundation to help create a future with fewer strokes. This year, my main goals are to:

1.      Keep my muscles on my right side strong. Since my stroke, I have numbing and weakness on my right side. I noticed a big difference this year since doing Pilates. I need to do it regularly, because if you don’t use it, you lose it.    

2.     I want to set a good example for my kids to be active, including walking, bike riding, and playing outside and just showing my kids that exercise is a normal part of life.

Almost 47,000 Australians will have a stroke this year — that’s one every 11 minutes.

This year, every $11 raised represents one stroke expected in Australia. I’m aiming to make as much impact as I can — and I’d love your support.

Your donation will help fund vital programs and services that:

• Prevent stroke through education and awareness

• Support people and families when stroke happens

• Help survivors of stroke recover and rebuild their lives

Every dollar truly makes a difference.

Thank you so much for supporting me — together, we can help change the story of stroke.