BENDIGO stroke survivors are set to step out to raise funds for an organisation which supports their often-long recovery.
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Peter Spranaitis will be among those taking part in Will2Walk, an annual fundraiser for the Stroke Association of Victoria.
He will be one of several Bendigo stroke survivors, and their friends and family, joining together - virtually - to raise money for the organisation.
It will be the event's second year in the city, after the Bendigo Stroke Support Centre opened in July.
Participants will walk to support the SAV in their own neighbourhood, while keeping to any COVID-19 restrictions in place.
For Mr Spranaitis, this will mean walking from Kangaroo Flat to Lake Weeroona, a distance of 10 kilometres. The walking helps both with Mr Spranaitis's rehabilitation, and with his mental health.
He's hoping to make the walk with a few friends.
Mr Spranaitis has been a member of the Bendigo Stroke Support group since he had a stroke in February 2019. It meant he lost the use of his left hand side.
In the Bendigo support group he has found people in a similar position, who can give tips and support.
Mr Spranaitis said it meant a lot to have a network like that.
"You get to talk to people who've walked in my shoes, and they know what I'm going through and things like that," he said.
Bendigo's Stroke Support Centre focuses on community inclusion, teaching independent living skills and sharing recovery techniques.
During COVID-19 restrictions it has been providing support by phone, video calls and emails.
It is run by the Stroke Association of Victoria.
Will2Walk will take place on October 11.
Find out more about the Will2Walk fundraiser online, at: will2walk-2020.raisely.com/
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