Hobart Family Honours Loved One Lost to Stroke

This is a story that highlights that stroke can strike anyone, at any age, and the importance of knowing the signs. In Tasmania alone, more than 1,100 people had a stroke in 2023, the highest rate per capita in the country.

Media release – Stroke Foundation, 15 September 2025

Hobart family strides in memory of sister lost to stroke

A Hobart family is honouring the memory of their beloved sister, daughter, wife and mother, Ally Hugo, by joining the Stroke Foundation’s Stride4Stroke campaign this September.

Ally tragically passed away on 11 May 2024 at just 34 years of age after suffering a sudden and devastating stroke. Ally’s passing left behind her husband Ben, and two young children, Ella (5) and Victor (7).

Ally’s sister, Kristy Hay, said the family’s grief is still raw, but coming together to take part in Stride4Stroke to honour Ally’s memory is helping them through this difficult time.

“We miss Ally every single day. Remembering her and being active for her, is helping us all as we navigate this loss,” Hay said.

“The first signs of stroke were overlooked because of Ally’s young age and pre-existing health conditions, including diabetes.

She experienced blurred vision, a persistent migraine and slurred speech, but these were attributed to low blood sugar. Within days, we were saying our final goodbyes.

“It is so important for everyone to know the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke. Stroke doesn’t just happen to the elderly – it can happen to anyone.”

Kristy, together with family and friends from across Australia, will take part in Stride4Stroke as Team Ally. They’re walking not only to raise vital funds and awareness of stroke, but also to honour Ally and keep her memory alive.

Stroke Foundation CEO, Dr Lisa Murphy, praised the family’s courage.

“Ally’s story is a heartbreaking reminder that stroke can strike anyone, at any age. It is important to know that in women, strokes are also more likely to present with symptoms outside the classic Face, Arms and Speech changes – such as headache, nausea, confusion, loss of balance or fatigue. By sharing her experience, Kristy and her family are helping raise awareness and help others recognise stroke signs and the urgency of seeking treatment,” Murphy said.

“Through Stride4Stroke, they are also honouring Ally’s life in a way that brings people together to move more, learn more and ultimately save lives.”

Every 11 minutes, someone in Australia experiences a stroke. In Tasmania alone, more than 1,100 people had a stroke in 2023, and the state continues to record the highest stroke rates per capita in the country.

Tasmanians everywhere are encouraged to join the Hugo family and thousands of others across Australia in Stride4Stroke this September.

Register today at: www.stride4stroke.org.au

About Stride4Stroke

Stride4Stroke is Stroke Foundation’s biggest annual fundraiser, challenging Australians to set a personal ‘Moving Minutes’ goal and get active their own way throughout September — walking, running, swimming, dancing or riding — to help prevent stroke, save lives and support the 440,000 stroke survivors in our community.

Stride4Stroke 2025 is proudly supported by: Australian Physiotherapy Association, Compassion Care Network and Precision Group

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