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€1013

Raised

€200

Target

Aoife Purcell fundraising for Irish Heart Foundation in 60 in September 2026 as part of Exclusive Hearts in Motion- Taking Strides against Stroke

January 21st this year, I had a bit of a moment! 😂

I hadn't felt right the night before but woke up knowing I needed to take a day off and stay in bed. Well, that didn’t happen!

Within a few steps of getting out of bed, I had fallen to the floor unable to move. My right arm felt completely unconnected to my body, swinging around with zero control, but my brain wasn't rationalising the situation for a good half hour, so I didn't cop the severity of what was happening. Until I did 😬.

When I  started to realise something was really wrong I called my husband,  Lee, but my voice sounded totally different, and I panicked.  When he came to me, he knew instantly. I'll never forget hearing him telling 911, "My wife is having a stroke." 

From there it was fire brigade, ambulance, 12 hours in A&E, and then the longest week of my life in Connolly Hospital. God bless Sharon Dunne, who had to take the first call from me in A&E to tell her I might not be in that day and why😬 She played a blinder and made me laugh, my voice may have made her laugh too to be fair!

Further investigations found that the stroke had been caused by a PFO, a hole in my heart, which was repaired during a procedure in April 2026.

Throughout my recovery, I was supported by family, friends and my Exclusive Networks team and importantly with the Irish Heart Foundation.

I know how fortunate I am. I was very lucky to make a full recovery and, just last week, I was signed off by the stroke clinic and told to "now go and live life".😁

The Irish Heart Foundation supports so many people and families affected by stroke and heart conditions, and I am incredibly grateful for the help and support I received.

This September, I'm taking on a 100km challenge to give something back and raise funds for the Irish Heart Foundation so they can continue supporting others.

If you'd like to support me, I'd be hugely grateful. Every donation will make a difference.

Thank you for your support ❤️

Challenge progress

Walk 60 Miles in the month of September and raise funds to help save lives from heart disease and stroke.

43.32 Miles

Completed

60 Miles

Target

Challenge updates

Date: 19/09/2026
Completed: 5.50 Miles
Date: 17/09/2026
Completed: 1.70 Miles
Date: 16/09/2026
Completed: 1.25 Miles
Date: 15/09/2026
Completed: 1.50 Miles
Date: 13/09/2026
Completed: 6.20 Miles
This Sunday was the 2 Piers walk around DunLaoghaire!
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My Amazing Supporters (26)

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Marie Ruane

Glad you're on the mend, Aoife!

€20
7 days ago
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Colm Sunderland

Congratulations Aoife on supporting a great cause.

€30
9 days ago
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Sarah

€50
14 days ago
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Emma Donnelly

€20
14 days ago
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Noel Byrne

Thanks for arranging all this Aoife, and the very best of luck with your fund raising!

Aoife Purcell
Thanks Noel! Team work makes the dream work!
€20
18 days ago
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About 60 in September 2026

Walk 60 Miles in the month of September and raise funds to help save lives from heart disease and stroke. Our mission is to eliminate preventable death and disability from heart disease and stroke and to support and care for those living with these life-changing conditions.

Its fundraisers like you that help us support those who need it most. 

Find out more

About Irish Heart Foundation

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death in both men and women. The tragic reality is – around 16 people will have a heart attack today. Just today, and every other day. And on each of those days, 20 others will have a stroke. These are extraordinary and stark facts. But the equally remarkable – and hopeful – reality is: 80% of early heart disease and stroke cases are preventable. That’s why the Irish Heart Foundation has been here for 60 years. Here to lead the charge to protect the cardiovascular health of everyone in Ireland. Here, to eliminate preventable death or disability. Here to collaborate. Here, not just as one of Ireland’s most trusted and effective charities, but to build a lifesaving movement across the country. We are here regardless of age, background or means. Here for every community, every school, and every workplace. Here for every heartbeat.

Find out more