ONE of Stroke Foundation’s most prolific fundraisers has been recognised for his achievements, being named a finalist in the 2023 Stroke Awards.
Mordialloc personal trainer Dan Maitland has raised almost $80,000 for the Stroke Foundation over the past three years, organising major events during the organisation’s major annual fundraiser, Stride4Stroke.
It’s a cause close to Dan’s heart after his sister Bec experienced a lifechanging stroke in 2016 at just 28 years old.
“It’s great to be recognised for such an achievement, but I couldn’t have done it by myself. It takes an army,” Dan said.
“Stride4Stroke has been a really amazing thing because we’ve not only raised money, we’ve been able to educate hundreds of people, make them aware of what a stroke is and what they can do to avoid having one.
“My whole family has gone above and beyond. We plan on doing it every year for Bec and the hundreds of people who have a stroke each year.”
Stroke Foundation Acting Chief Executive Officer John De Rango congratulated Dan on such an amazing achievement.
“Dan is an absolute star who demonstrates such a commitment to Stroke Foundation. Our community is stronger because of selfless people like him who have seen the devastating impact of stroke firsthand,” Mr De Rango said.
“Dan and his team have ensured hundreds of people now know about stroke and how to lower their own risk. He is an inspiration, his drive to ease the burden of stroke on other survivors and their families is to be admired.”
The Stroke Awards celebrate the unsung heroes in our community who go above and beyond to improve the lives of Australians affected by stroke. This includes the survivors of stroke, carers, volunteers, fundraisers, health professional, researchers and members of the community.
The Fundraiser of the Year category recognises people who have gone above and beyond to raise awareness and funds for stroke in Australia. The finalists are:
- Dan Maitland – VIC
- Peter Scott – VIC
- Nick Beever – VIC
The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Melbourne on May 4, 2023.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 19 April 2023