American Stroke Month – May 2015

Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the United States.  One out of every six people will suffer from a stroke in their lifetime, and stroke is the 5th cause of death in the United States.  American Stroke Month is an annual opportunity that takes place in May, that brings people together to create awareness, rally, and show support because only united, we can end stroke.

F.A.S.T.

One in three Americans is unable to recognize all the F.A.S.T. stroke warning signs. Stroke heroes know what the acronym F.A.S.T. stands for and they are ready to spot and react quickly by calling 9-1-1.

F – FACE DROOPING

A – ARM WEAKNESS

S – SPEECH DIFFICULTY

T – TIME TO CALL 9-1-1

Being aware of these stroke signs may mean the difference between life and death or between full recovery and permanent disability.  You can become a stroke hero by knowing these warning signs and being able to react accordingly.

The focus of this year’s American Stroke Month is making sure there are many stroke heroes to save lives from stroke.  By learning the F.A.S.T. signs and sharing them with family and friends, we can raise awareness and make sure there are stroke heroes ready to act.

If you know someone who may have suffered from a stroke, the American Heart Association has a support network where you can share your personal experiences, and give and get emotional support as both a stroke victim and a stoke caregiver.

To learn more about the American Heart Association / American Stroke Association’s support network, please click here.