My name is Leonard Cervantes, and I am a stroke survivor. Thank you for visiting my fundraising page for University Health Network’s (UHN’s) annual Rally for Rehab, presented by BMO.

On September 8, 2024, I’ll be walking with hundreds of other participants to support the incredible research being done at Toronto Rehab, where I, myself was a patient.

Rally for Rehab is a fun and exciting way to rally for family, friends and loved ones who have been impacted by rehabilitation, helping them thrive and reach their full potential. This fundraiser supports Toronto Rehab’s vital stroke research, rehabilitation programs, and support services.

You may or may not have known that I experienced a hemorrhagic stroke in October 2023. I have been quietly working on my recovery ever since. This journey has been one of hope, resilience, and determination.

After surviving a stroke, I had to relearn many things, including walking. I still face challenges with vision, balance, and endurance. Completing the Rally for Rehab while standing on my own two feet is a major goal that I have set for myself.

Strokes can affect anyone and they are more common than we think. Well-known figures like Sharon Stone, Emilia Clarke, John Singleton, the sprinter Michael Johnson and Luke Perry have encountered strokes and non-famous people of all ages do too each every day. There are many sad stories but also very happy ones. I feel sad sometimes but I'm working on being happy about all the good things that I know are coming next.

If you know me well, you know that I’m a boxing fan and a fan of Rocky movies. Here’s a quote that I read to myself during extra-tough moments:

“It ain't about how hard you hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward; how much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done!" – Rocky Balboa 

(watch the clip yourself! https://youtu.be/Ozt2LpWgOlk?si=h1C_K2WdfLMPUpv3)

If you can support my fundraising page with a donation, your generosity would mean so much to me and countless others. Every tax-deductable donation supports better treatments and faster recoveries. Your support means the world to me and all stroke survivors.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Leonard Ryan Cervantes

p.s. - I want to remind you how to recognize the signs of a stroke. I was lucky the people around me that day did.

Remember the acronym F.A.S.T: