On July 20, One Stroke Forward hosted Get Stroke Smart, a free summer fun event sponsored by the Triple Crown Country Club and the Greater Cincinnati Stroke Consortium. The event brought the community together to learn about stroke prevention and the brain and to celebrate stroke survivors.
Despite the rain, the luau themed Get Stroke Smart summer fun event was a hit, with a morning of fun and educational activities to raise stroke awareness for every member of the family.
Families enjoyed a presentation from the founders of One Stroke Forward and co-authors of the book Love Stroke, Brad and Kelly Marsh, who shared their expertise on supporting loved ones after a stroke, and importantly, stroke prevention. Kelly shared her story of survival after suffering a stroke in 2009, and answered questions about life after a stroke. Guests also learned all about the brain, including signs and symptoms of a stroke and stroke prevention from emergency department nurse Janie Nordman.
Adults and kids alike learned first hand how difficult regular activities can be after a stroke through hands-on games, which included putt-putt golf, corn hole, and ping pong, with limitations to simulate those experienced by a stroke survivor.
Even more educational fun was underway as kids received temporary One Stroke Forward tattoos, and families took silly photos in the photo area. Families also received yummy snacks and Kona Ice, and received giveaway bags full of prizes. Free blood pressure checks were offered on site, which several adults took advantage of to learn if they are at risk of a stroke, and if so, what changes they can make to prevent a stroke.
Every year, 800,000 people have a stroke in the United States, killing nearly 130,000 and leaving approximately 670,000 survivors. Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S. and 34 percent of those hospitalized for stroke were under 65 years-old. One Stroke Forward and the Greater Cincinnati Stroke Consortium are dedicated to raising stroke awareness and helping prevent stroke, and create solutions for stroke survivors.
To learn more about upcoming stroke-awareness events, visit http://onestrokeforward.org/events/.
