Steve D’Arcy, a stroke survivor from Yeovil, is embarking on a sponsored gaming marathon to raise funds for the Stroke Association. Despite losing the use of his right side due to a severe stroke, Steve is demonstrating his resilience by taking on this 12-hour challenge using only his left hand, chin, and mouth.
Scheduled for Saturday, August 31 from noon, the gaming marathon will not only test Steve’s physical abilities but also his sheer determination to battle the extreme fatigue that often plagues stroke survivors. This event holds personal significance for Steve, who found solace in gaming following his stroke, providing him with hope and a sense of normalcy amid his disabilities.
“Gaming had given me hope after my stroke as it was something I could still enjoy despite my disabilities,” Steve remarked. “With time and learning, gaming not only helped me recover but also provided the courage and confidence to pursue new goals. It improved my cognitive thinking and speech significantly, serving as an in-home therapy.”
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In light of the upcoming challenge, Steve has set a fundraising target of £1,000, which will contribute to the Stroke Association’s ongoing support for stroke survivors and their carers. The event promises to be a lively 12-hour stream marathon featuring gaming, giveaways, tournaments, and engaging discussions.
To support Steve in his Gaming Marathon, visit https://justgiving.com/page/stephen-darcy-1721055072729
For those interested in joining the challenge live, tune in to Steve’s Twitch channel at https://www.twitch.tv/1handedgamer82. This marks Steve’s third initiative to raise funds for the Stroke Association, building on the success of his prior two streams that collectively raised £1,500.
Reflecting on his experience with the Stroke Association, Steve expressed profound appreciation for their unwavering support. “From the start, the support from the Stroke Association was massive. They provided me with tips on setting goals and kick-started my miraculous journey.”
Steve’s dedication to raising stroke awareness is also driven by a desire to alert others to the importance of health management. “I want to get stroke awareness out there. I want to put out the message to get a blood pressure monitor, look at your diet and exercise, get in contact with your body or one day it will get in touch with you, and it won’t be good. If I can help someone think about their health, then that’s my goal.”
Moreover, the charity’s Stroke Support Helpline, online forum, and comprehensive website have been invaluable resources for Steve and countless other survivors and carers. For information, guidance, or a supportive chat, individuals can visit stroke.org.uk or call the dedicated Stroke Support Helpline on 0303 3033 100.
Marvin White, relationship fundraiser at the Stroke Association, commended Steve’s remarkable initiative, stating, “It’s amazing to see how gaming has helped Steve rebuild his life, and now he’s using those gaming skills to raise funds for our charity.”
Together, Steve and his supporters are not only contributing to the Stroke Association but also spreading a vital message of hope and resilience to stroke survivors worldwide.