A Stroke of Fate, A Stroke Association Marathon to Walk.

Lifestyle/Health & Medical Writers

VAN NUYS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 24, 2001

Marlene Turner was a 39-year-old successful senior loan officer.

In the middle of the night she awoke to use the bathroom and suddenly collapsed on the floor. Turner was rushed to the hospital, unable to walk, her vision blurred, and she felt like she was hit with a massive flu bug. In reality, it was a stroke.

After three weeks in the hospital, Turner returned home where she had to relearn how to stand, walk, dress, write and hopefully, regain her normal vision. It was as if she was a child again. It took Turner about four months to recover from the stroke and resume her normal routine but with a different perspective on life. "You really appreciate life after going through an experience like this," said Turner.

Turner is a stroke hero and in her honor, Vicki and Dave Petty will be participating in their first marathon in Keauhou-Kona, Hawaii, sponsored by the American Stroke Association. People from all over the country will be joining them for the June 24 event.

The Pettys met Turner at a Mid Valley Chamber of Commerce breakfast and were surprised to learn she had suffered a stroke five years ago. They found out that her ability to overcome the difficulties and challenges she faced was due in part to a treatment and physical therapy program developed through research by the American Stroke Association. s[pilcrow (paragraph sign)] The Pettys' participation in this event is more than just for exercise or the thrill of completing a marathon. It is to raise needed funds for stroke research. Their goal is $10,000.

Additionally, they were prompted to participate because of Dave Petty's high cholesterol and blood pressure. "I have found that since training for the marathon, my cholesterol is lower and so is my blood pressure," he said. "We are also eating healthier."

Until five months ago, the Pettys considered walking around the block to be a major feat for their feet. Through a special weekly "Train to End Stroke" program using volunteer coaches, they have learned the proper techniques for competing in a marathon and gained the necessary stamina to walk 26.2 miles which will take them between six and seven hours.

The training regimen for them has also included tips on nutrients, proper fluids to drink, the type of shoes to wear, and how to prepare, in stages, to walk a marathon. "We feel it will be an exciting experience and it's a way for us to help the community and play a role in helping people, like Marlene, who face the challenges brought on by a stroke," said Vicki Petty.

To learn more about the Hawaii marathon and to contribute to the Pettys' campaign for the American Stroke Association, contact Dave or Vicki Petty at 818/768-5025.