“IMAGINE waking up and not being able to speak. Every day.”

This is the experience of Poole man Russell Hanford who suffered a major stroke at the age of 35, leaving him with aphasia.

The condition affects all aspects of communication including reading and writing.

His brother, Peter, has since launched a fundraising campaign so Russell can receive private speech therapy.

He will take part in a 100 mile cycling event from London to Surrey in the hope of meeting, and exceeding, his £4,000 target.

Russell, who is a keen sportsman, also suffered a heart attack aged just 23. After making a full recovery, he and his family were shocked when he suffered a stroke 12 years later.

Peter described the day it happened and Russell’s life since the stroke.

“It was five weeks after he got married. He was at work when it happened, and the receptionist raised the alarm when she saw him stagger towards the toilet.

“He suffered major brain damage. Initially, he lost all right hand side movement, but his mobility eventually returned.

“However, the parts of his brain that control his speech are dead and will not regenerate. The rest of his brain is now learning those functions, but the recovery process is long and incredibly hard.

“His wife, Rachel, has been amazing. Without his speech, Russell had to stop working as a civil engineer. Rachel has supported the both of them, learned how to communicate with him and has become his interpreter.”

Peter added his brother had always been “very sporty, athletic and healthy”. He runs, cycles, windsurfs, kitesurfs, plays tennis and is an “inspiration” to those who know him.

In the 18 months since his stroke, he has received treatment from Dorset Health Care. However, as Peter explained, the NHS can no longer support his speech therapy.

If Russell does not continue his sessions, there is a chance he will never speak again.

“The support from the NHS has been amazing, but Russell has to have private treatment now. Although he’s made some major improvements, the intensity of the therapy he requires costs a huge amount of money."

Rachel added the couple had been "overwhelmed" by the generosity of those who had donated so far.

"We really didn’t think the campaign would have such an instant impact. We are both very grateful for the donations, which mean Russell can continue with his much-needed therapy."

To donate to help Russell speak again, visit fnd.us/a181G4