A STROKE support group is hoping to raise awareness and much needed funds. The life after stoke club, based at Lister Hospital, supports those who have either survived a stroke or those who care for someone who has suffered from what is the UK s third bi

A STROKE support group is hoping to raise awareness and much needed funds.

The life after stoke club, based at Lister Hospital, supports those who have either survived a stroke or those who care for someone who has suffered from what is the UK's third biggest killer.

Every year more than 150,000 people in the UK have a stroke. That is one person every three minutes. Most people affected are over 65 but 1,000 people under 30 have strokes including children and babies.

Stroke specialist nurse Chris O'Brien said: "A stroke is the brain equivalent of a heart attack and is a medical emergency. It changes everything suddenly. Although not yet preventable, much can be done to speed up a patient's recovery and get them back on their feet again, literally, so that they start leading independent and fulfilling lives once again.

"Services like the life after stroke club play a huge role in doing just that."

The club is holding a disco on Saturday, May 6 at 7.30pm until 1am at Stevenage Arts and Leisure Centre to raise funds.

Mrs O'Brien said: "Not only is it a chance to raise much needed funds, but also it is a way of helping to spread the message about stroke awareness and for everybody to have some fun too. So we're hoping that the evening is well supported by everybody, not only stroke survivors and carers."

* Tickets are £8. For tickets call Chris on 01438 781083.