A BROMSGROVE resident and stroke survivor is encouraging residents to support a new fundraising campaign organised by a town based charity.

The Stroke Association has launched the fundraising initiative, Give a Hand, which will see people across the UK complete an everyday activity using the hand they wouldn't normally use, reflecting how stroke survivors have to adjust to using their other hand.

The charity has its headquarters, the Life After Stroke Centre, in Church Lane.

The campaign takes place between Monday, October 26, and Sunday, November 1.

Avid knitter Norma Humphries, had a devastating stroke in 2009 that left her with limited movement in her right arm and hand.

The 75-year-old was keen to get back in to knitting after her stroke but couldn’t find any suitable aids to help her knit one handed. Norma took part in the Stroke Association’s one handed knitting challenge earlier this year, helping to create a giant tea cosy.

Norma said: “Being able to knit has always been very important to me. I was distraught when I thought I wouldn’t be able to knit again. But after knitting my first one-handed square, I was absolutely thrilled that I could still do it.

“By getting involved with Give a Hand, hopefully many more people will able to help change the world for stroke survivors. The vital funds raised for the Stroke Association will support people like me who are on the road to recovery.”

Sophie James, community and events fundraising manager at the Stroke Association, said: “A stroke strikes in an instant but its effects can last a lifetime.

"Three quarters of stroke survivors lose the use of one of their hands. Often people affected by stroke have to re-learn to do the things they’ve always done – using their other hand. The Stroke Association supports people through this rehabilitation.

“We’re calling on people to ‘Give a Hand’ this October and raise funds by completing a task, or several, using their ‘other’ hand. By taking part and raising funds for the Stroke Association, we can help more people like Norma to conquer stroke.”

To find out more about the campaign visit stroke.org.uk/giveahand, or call 0303 3033 100.