Imagine knowing exactly what you want to say - and not being able to say it

As a Stroke Consultant, I am privileged to walk alongside people and families at some of the most frightening moments of their lives. Every day, I see how suddenly a stroke can change someone's life in second. One moment they they are talking and laughing the next they can't find the words they want to say.
Aphasia is one of the most devastating consequences of stroke. It doesn’t just affect speech; it affects identity, independence, relationships, and confidence. I have met patients who know exactly what they want to say but feel trapped because the words won’t come. I have seen partners become interpreters, children become carers, and proud, capable people slowly withdraw because communicating has become so exhausting.

What stays with me most is this: people with aphasia are often fully aware, fully intelligent, and fully present — yet the world can begin to speak around them instead of to them.

That is why I am running this half marathon.

I want to raise funds and awareness for aphasia to support better rehabilitation, better understanding, and better long-term care for people living with communication difficulties after stroke. Recovery doesn’t end when someone leaves hospital and neither should our support.

Running this race is my way of standing with my patients beyond the hospital walls. Every mile is for the people relearning how to introduce themselves, how to order a coffee, how to tell the people they love “I love you” again.

If you’re able to donate, you’re not just supporting a run. You’re helping people find their voices again along with their confidence, dignity, and place in conversation.

Thank you so much for reading, for supporting, and for being part of this journey. Barbora ONeill