7 Stroke Advocates Honored for Resilience, Impact

 If the ASA would do its' job of getting survivors to 100% recovery, you wouldn't need resilience or have to be a hero to recover from a stroke. But they are one of the fucking failures of stroke associations. And seem proud not to do anything that gets survivors to 100% recovery!

7 Stroke Advocates Honored for Resilience, Impact

American Heart Association

Every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. has a stroke[1], one of the leading causes of serious, long-term disability. To spotlight the courage and dedication of those impacted by stroke, the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, is honoring seven nationwide recipients through its annual Stroke Hero Awards.

The awards celebrate stroke survivors, caregivers, health care professionals and advocates who are advancing awareness, education and support for the stroke community nationwide. Recognized each May, during American Stroke Month, the Association — a global force changing the future of health of all — honors these Stroke Heroes and proudly advocates for stroke survivors year-round.

Those who have had a stroke often must work against physical, emotional and cognitive changes to move forward. This year's winners demonstrate how personal experiences can drive public impact — from publishing support guides and launching nonprofits, to advocating in hospitals and local communities.

Winners include:

• Caregiver Hero: Lana Wilhelm, St. Louis

  When Lana Wilhelm's husband survived a devastating stroke, she felt isolated and needed support, education and resources for her new caregiving role — and she wanted others to have it too. She started by writing Stroke and the Spouse: A Guide for the Survivor's Care Partner. Lana also gives bedside support in the hospital to new survivors and their families, attends support groups and gives presentations informed by her background as a nurse and her personal caregiving journey.

• Equity Hero: Carolyn Brown, Canton, Connecticut

  In her career as an occupational therapist, Carolyn Brown saw firsthand the heartbreaking reality of stroke survivors using up all their insurance benefits but still needing care. Feeling compelled to help, Carolyn launched StrokeOT, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides continuing rehabilitative care to survivors. What started as exercise classes led by an occupational therapist has expanded significantly. Now, stroke survivors nationwide can access support groups, physical therapy, cooking classes and more.

• F.A.S.T. Hero: Sheila Beal, Raleigh, North Carolina

  Sheila Beal's swift, decisive actions saved her husband, Andy, when he experienced two strokes in April 2018. Andy had dismissed his symptoms and gone back to bed after a suspected "warning stroke," or TIA (transient ischemic attack). But after Sheila researched stroke warning signs on the American Stroke Association's website, she woke Andy up and drove him to the hospital, where he suffered a second severe stroke. Her vigilance ensured Andy received lifesaving treatment and paved the way for a smoother recovery.

• Group Heroes: Helping Kids with Hemiplegia, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

  Helping Kids with Hemiplegia is a camp that empowers young stroke survivors, enhances their confidence and fosters their independence by focusing on functional skills, adaptive strategies and positive reinforcement. This approach connects kids and families with unique resources that can help transform their lives. The organization's therapeutic day camp lets young stroke survivors with hemiplegia practice using their affected limbs to perform daily tasks, fostering skill development and a belief in their own capabilities.

• Pediatric Hero: Makenzie Childs, Spanaway, Washington

  Makenzie Childs survived a pediatric stroke when she was just a preschooler. She not only pulled through after intensive therapy, now she's a vibrant competitive dancer. The Childs family became involved with a pediatric stroke support and awareness group to help people facing the same crisis. The family also raises awareness as patient ambassadors for the local children's hospital. Makenzie shared her experience on the Stroke Stories podcast and danced to raise funds for pediatric stroke care.

• Survivor Hero: Brisa Alfaro, Apple Valley, California

  Brisa Alfaro experienced a stroke that left her completely paralyzed and unable to speak at 32 — with less than a 1% chance of living to tell about it. But not only did Brisa survive, she has made it her mission to educate, empower and support others. Her motto is "Small Moves, BIG RESULTS," and through her speaking engagements and book, Limitless: Small Moves to Your Greatest Life after a Paralyzing Stroke, Brisa has reached thousands with her message of hope.

• Voters' Choice Hero: Kathleen O'Leary, Buffalo, New York

  After Kathleen O'Leary suffered a massive stroke and couldn't find a support group, she created one herself. Now stroke survivors in Buffalo, New York have a place to go for information and support. The physician and mom of two also pointed out to her colleagues that they weren't preparing patients for life after a stroke. She pushed through depression and serious physical challenges to champion the formation of a task force of medical, mental health and social services professionals to help stroke survivors find a new normal.

Winners were selected by a nationwide panel of volunteer judges from the American Stroke Association, except for the Voters' Choice Award, which was selected by online popular vote.

/Public Release. This material from the originating organization/author(s) might be of the point-in-time nature, and edited for clarity, style and length. Mirage.News does not take institutional positions or sides, and all views, positions, and conclusions expressed herein are solely those of the author(s).View in full here.           

Ely teen Reegan Lueken among 6 advocates nationwide selected to receive 2024 Stroke Hero Award

 If the AHA/ASA would do their only fucking job(SOLVING STROKE TO 100% RECOVERY!) then they wouldn't need to publicize heroes. Nancy Brown, care to reply to me? oc1dean@gmail.com

We can discuss with your board of directors the strategy to 100% recovery. You'll want 100% recovery when you are the 1 in 4 per WHO that has a stroke? 

Ely teen Reegan Lueken among 6 advocates nationwide selected to receive 2024 Stroke Hero Award

The American Stroke Association spotlights the resiliency of local individuals and groups in the fight against stroke

HIAWATHA, Iowa, May 16, 2024 – Reegan Lueken, a 10th grader from Ely who experienced a stroke at age 12, is 1 of 6 stroke heroes from across the country recognized by the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, for their resiliency and dedication in the fight against stroke.

Lueken earned the Pediatric Hero Award as part of the American Stroke Association’s annual Stroke Hero Awards honoring stroke survivors, health care professionals, advocates and caregivers. During May, American Stroke Month, the Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all and celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service, honors these Stroke Heroes and proudly advocates for stroke survivors year-round.

Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke.[1] Those who have had a stroke often work against physical, emotional and cognitive changes to move forward.

Lueken experienced a stroke on her first day of 7th grade track practice. Since then, her perseverance has been an inspiration. But returning home from the hospital was just the beginning of her journey. She has participated in intensive therapies to help get her life back on track.

Now a 10th grader, Lueken’s stroke has taught her that every day is a gift. She has worked hard to be on the honor roll and complete her first community college course. She uses the Association’s platform to share her story so others can learn from her experience. Lueken and her mom, Maria – a heart disease survivor – want others to know that a stroke can happen to anyone at any age.

The pair shared their story at the Cedar Rapids Heart Ball on Feb. 3.

In addition to Lueken, the 2024 Stroke Hero winners include:

• Caregiver Hero: Loretta Sharp Gray, Oakwood Village, Ohio
  Loretta Sharp Gray went from teaching students with disabilities to personal caregiver for her life partner, who survived a serious stroke and wasn’t expected to live. Never complaining or seeking recognition, she takes care of him at home with periodic home visits from his primary care doctor and nurse practitioner. At the same time, this grandmother is an advocate, volunteer and trusted messenger in the community. She also volunteers with the Association’s STEM Goes Red program. Students from local schools learn about heart health, stroke and CPR, as well as careers in science, technology, engineering and math.
   
• Equity Hero: Dr. Kimon Bekelis, Babylon, New York
  Kimon Bekelis, MD has worked tirelessly to ensure equal access to lifesaving stroke care on Long Island, N.Y. regardless of demographics or ability to pay. He led the development of the Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center at Good Samaritan, the first Comprehensive Stroke Center on the south shore of Long Island, expanding access to high-quality stroke care for an underserved population. He believes everyone deserves an equal chance at the best possible outcome. Throughout his career, Dr. Bekelis has embodied this commitment to health equity and worked to enact meaningful improvements in equitable access to lifesaving stroke care.
   
• Group Heroes: Centre for Neuro Skills, various locations in California and Texas
  For more than 40 years, the Centre for Neuro Skills has provided community-based treatment for people recovering from brain injuries. As a recognized leader in the stroke and brain injury rehabilitation field, the Centre’s specially trained staff offer outcome-driven medical treatment, therapeutic rehabilitation and disease management services. The Centre lends its clinical expertise for educational interviews and shares inspiring stroke patient stories to local and national media for national recognition days, such as World Stroke Day and American Stroke Month, to educate the public about stroke prevention, causes and rehabilitation.
   
• Survivor Hero: Craig Northcutt, Durant, Oklahoma
  Craig Northcutt nearly lost his life in an ATV accident, leaving him with a brain bleed that caused a stroke. After months of intensive neurorehabilitation, he relearned how to walk, talk and return to work. Now he raises awareness about stroke through professional mentorship and by sharing his story with high school students and stroke survivors. Craig is celebrating his 12-year stroke anniversary and his 30-year work anniversary with the Choctaw Nation. As part of the organization’s Tribal Advocacy program, he helps tribal nation members develop their professional skills and find jobs.
   
• Voters’ Choice Hero: Rick Hoeg, Northville, Michigan
  After having a hemorrhagic stroke on Dec. 30, 2022, Rick Hoeg tackled the hardest challenge of his life: recovery. While still in aggressive outpatient rehab, Rick created a nine-part YouTube series on stroke education and prevention, often featuring his rehabilitation therapists. In his series, he taught stroke warning signs and shared his recovery journey, reaching over 100,000 viewers. Rick’s video series culminated in a $30,000 fundraiser benefiting the hospitals that saved his life. Today, he continues to educate about stroke and supports hospital staff in their vital work.

Winners were selected by a nationwide panel of volunteer judges from the American Stroke Association, with the exception of the Voters’ Choice Award, which was selected via online popular vote.

For more information, visit Stroke.org/HeroAwards.

 

American Stroke Association names 2023 Stroke Heroes

 

This is necessary because the American Stroke Association has COMPLETELY FUCKING FAILED at the only goal in stroke; 100% recovery. If they would just do their one and only job, survivors would recover, but NO, they are doing NOTHING FOR SURVIVORS.

American Stroke Association names 2023 Stroke Heroes

Health

03 May 2023 11:40 pm AEST

American Heart Association

Six local stroke heroes from across the country are being recognized by the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, for their resiliency and dedication to rise up against stroke. Approximately 800,000 Americans have a stroke each year,[1] a leading cause of disability in the U.S., and one in four survivors will have another one.

The American Stroke Association's annual Stroke Hero Awards honors stroke survivors, health care professionals and family caregivers. The Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, celebrates these heroes during American Stroke Month this May and proudly advocates for stroke survivors year-round.

Recovering from a stroke is a complicated and unique journey, different for every person. The following Stroke Heroes are being recognized for outstanding efforts in educating, inspiring and raising awareness about stroke.

Winners include:

• Caregiver Hero: Justine Knight, Raleigh, North Carolina

  As a high school sophomore, Justine Knight became her father's biggest advocate when he had a stroke in 2008. She accompanied him to countless support group meetings and began volunteering with Triangle Aphasia Project Unlimited (TAP) in Cary, North Carolina. Eventually, she became his primary caregiver, and she and her husband, Jason, modified their home and habits to accommodate his physical limitations. Justine is now executive director of TAP, offering support to other stroke survivors.

• Equity Hero: Dr. William "BJ" Hicks, Columbus, Ohio

  Vascular neurologist William "BJ" Hicks is committed to treating stroke survivors and reducing stroke incidence in under-resourced communities. A passionate advocate for policies that reduce health disparities, he helped create the Franklin County Hypertension Network, which unites health centers, doctors and local community groups that focus on addressing social determinants of health. He also led a seven-year effort to create a mobile stroke treatment unit, unveiled in 2019, in Central Ohio.

• Group Heroes: Stamp Out Stroke, New Haven, Connecticut

  A program of Yale School of Medicine and Yale New Haven Hospital, Stamp Out Stroke provides stroke education to hundreds of people — from teens at a science summer camp to residents of senior housing — with a focus on under-resourced areas. The program's 50-plus volunteers represent a cross-section of the medical community, including nurses, nurse navigators, physicians, neuropsychologists, neurology residents, rehab professionals and students studying to become doctors, physician assistants and nurses.

• Pediatric Hero: Mariah Fisher, San Jose, California

  In 2018, a massive stroke caused by an arteriovenous malformation changed 12-year-old Mariah Fisher's life. She spent seven weeks in the hospital and endured countless procedures and sessions of intense physical, occupational, speech, music and recreational therapy. Despite what she lost due to her stroke — including most of the seventh and eighth grades — she never lost her positive attitude and determination to get better. She's now an award-winning, speech-giving, inspiring pediatric stroke survivor.

• Survivor Hero: Debra Meyerson, Portola Valley, California

  A stroke in 2010 nearly killed Debra Meyerson. After three years of intense rehabilitation, she wasn't able to return to Stanford University as a tenured professor, largely due to aphasia, a language disorder that affects your ability to communicate. As she struggled to forge a new identity, she wrote the book "Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves After Stroke." She and her husband, Steve Zuckerman, then founded Stroke Onward, a nonprofit whose mission is to ensure stroke survivors and supporters have resources to rebuild identities and rewarding lives.

• Voters' Choice Hero: ProMedica Stroke Network, Toledo, Ohio

  The ProMedica Toledo Stroke Network takes a holistic approach to stroke prevention and care. It raises awareness and money to support stroke patients with limited financial means through its BE FAST 5K Run/Walk. It led implementation of a countywide EMS protocol that gets acute stroke patients to the hospital faster — and then successfully advocated for a statewide rollout. And, it has sent team members as far away as Pakistan to teach interventionalists how to perform neuroendovascular procedures.

Winners were selected by a nationwide panel of volunteer judges from the American Stroke Association, with the exception of the Voters' Choice Award, which was selected via online popular vote.

Those who have had a stroke often must work against physical, emotional and cognitive changes to move forward. For 25 years the American Stroke Association has been a powerful force in ensuring that those who have a stroke get timely, optimal care, support, rehab services and more.

/Public Release. This material from the originating organization/author(s) might be of the point-in-time nature, and edited for clarity, style and length. Mirage.News does not take institutional positions or sides, and all views, positions, and conclusions expressed herein are solely those of the author(s).View in full here.

 

American Stroke Association names 2022 Stroke Heroes

 This is necessary because the American Stroke Association has COMPLETELY FUCKING FAILED at the only goal in stroke; 100% recovery. If they would just do their one and only job, survivors would recover, but NO, they are doing NOTHING FOR SURVIVORS.

American Stroke Association names 2022 Stroke Heroes

(NewMediaWire) - May 02, 2022 - DALLAS - Approximately 800,000 Americans have a stroke each year[1] and one in four survivors will have another one. To recognize the resiliency and dedication it takes to rise up against stroke, six everyday heroes from around the country are being honored by the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association.

The American Stroke Associations annual Stroke Hero Awards honor stroke survivors, health care professionals and family caregivers. The Association, the worlds leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health and research for all, celebrates these heroes during American Stroke Month this May and proudly advocates for stroke survivors year-round.

Overcoming stroke requires immense strength and dedication and every persons experience is unique. The following Stroke Heroes are being recognized for outstanding efforts in educating, inspiring and raising awareness about stroke.
Winners include:

• Voters Choice Hero: David Moskowitz, Cincinnati, Ohio.
  David Moskowitz was a healthy, active high schooler when he experienced a stroke from a brain bleed four years ago. After a delayed diagnosis, he spent nearly a month in the hospital fighting to survive. After months of therapy, David regained his mobility, strength and vision. Today, hes completing his Bachelor of Science in nursing and nursing cooperative education, while learning from the very nurses who helped save his life.

• Group Heroes: International Alliance for Pediatric Stroke (IAPS), Charlotte, North Carolina.
  The International Alliance for Pediatric Stroke (IAPS) educates and raises awareness about stroke among children. The IAPS advocates on state, national and world levels through various efforts, including its annual Pediatric Stroke Awareness Campaign in May and collaborative efforts with organizations like the American Stroke Association.

• Pediatric Hero: Kyler Lewis, College Station, Texas.
  Teenager Kyler Lewis shares his story as a pediatric stroke survivor to educate and inspire others. He uses social media such as Facebook, YouTube and CaringBridge, as well as local news interviews and community functions, to document his recovery after his stroke in 2020 at age 15. Kyler mails pediatric stroke survivors gifts, encourages them in their recovery and shows them theyre not alone.

• Equity Hero: Andrew Suggs, Baltimore, Maryland.
  Andrew Suggs created Live Chair Health in 2017 to partner with barbershops and salons to increase awareness about health issues including stroke that disproportionately affect Black people. The organization equips barbers and hairdressers with blood pressure monitors and health information that allow more Black people to get preventative care, lower their blood pressure and live longer.

• Caregiver Hero: Elyse Newland, Harrison, Tennessee.
  Elyse Newland became frustrated when her grandmother got inconsistent care after a warning stroke called a transient ischemic attack (TIA) in 2019. The Chattanooga, Tennessee, native changed her career focus to become a certified stroke rehabilitation specialist. Elyse then started several free public channels for stroke rehab education via YouTube, blog posts, an eBook and a nonprofit.

• Survivor Hero: Deb Shaw, Los Gatos, California.
  After three strokes, Deb Shaw created ChampiontheChallenges.org, a California nonprofit in which she encourages stroke survivors to pursue her 3Ps for a successful recovery: Patience, Positivity and Practice. Deb encourages stroke survivors to reimagine their rehabilitation journey. Her website, YouTube channel and Quick Read TM booklets are filled with inspirational content, therapy ideas, health care technology and success stories.

Winners were selected by a nationwide panel of volunteer judges from the American Stroke Association, with the exception of the Voters Choice Award, which was selected via online votes.

Stroke is the No. 5 killer in the U.S. and a leading cause of serious long-term disability. Those who have had a stroke often must work against physical, emotional and cognitive changes to move forward. To do so requires strength and support.

For more information, visit www.Stroke.org/HeroAwards.

###

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the publics health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us onheart.org,Facebook,Twitteror by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About the American Stroke Association

The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the publics health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visitstroke.org. Follow us onFacebookandTwitter.

For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173

Darcy Wallace: 817-698-5480; Darcy.Wallace@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.organdstroke.org

[1] Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics2022 Update: Summary Circulation.2022;145:e153e639. DOI: 10.1161/CIR.0000000000001052

 

Champion the Challenges Founder Deb Shaw Receives 2022 Stroke Survivor Hero Award

Stroke survivors should never have to be considered heroes. With 100% recovery protocols they just have to do the work as prescribed and recovery will occur. 

Champion the Challenges Founder Deb Shaw Receives 2022 Stroke Survivor Hero Award

American Stroke Association Confers Prestigious Honor to Three-Time Stroke Survivor

LOS GATOS, Calif., April 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Stroke Association has bestowed its annual Stroke Survivor Hero Award to Deb Shaw, a three-time stroke survivor and the Founder and President of Champion the Challenges, a nonprofit foundation committed to helping inspire and motivate stroke survivors and their families to persevere during this life challenge.

The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, the world's leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease and stroke, created the Stroke Hero Awards to honor stroke survivors, health care professionals, and family caregivers from around the country.

"I am humbled and grateful to be honored with the 2022 Stroke Survivor Hero Award," said Deb Shaw. "This has been a pivotal point in my life to dedicate my focus, first-hand experience, and commitment to helping the challenges of stroke worldwide."

In September 2016, Shaw survived a PONS ischemic stroke in her sleep that immobilized her dominant right side. She spent seven days in the ICU and another month at Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Gatos, California, for in-patient rehabilitation.

In December 2016, Shaw avoided some complications from a second stroke when, in her doctor's office for a follow-up, she experienced stroke symptoms. While in the ER, doctors administered a TPA-IV immediately, and she spent six days in the ICU. Then in May 2019, Shaw suffered a third stroke in her right retina, resulting in another five-day stay in the hospital.

Shaw channeled her energies into launching Champion the Challenges, uncovering several therapies such as Healthcare VR, Neuro Acupuncture and Hyperbaric Oxygen, to name a few that she incorporated into her aggressive healing regimen. Her philosophy is focused on staying patient, remaining positive, and practicing stretches in between therapies for continuous improvement.

In the first year since Deb co-founded her nonprofit foundation with her husband Bob Shaw, she has inspired 750+ stroke survivors and families, and served as a featured speaker at more than 30 stroke awareness events and support groups. Champion the Challenges has also provided nearly 1,000 quick-read self-help booklets for free to area hospitals and stroke survivors. She has also helped stroke survivors write and tell their stories which she has featured on the group's website.

"The Stroke Hero Awards were created in 2020 as a way to nationally recognize incredible individuals and groups who are working to prevent, treat or beat stroke, the No. 5 killer and a leading cause of disability in the U.S.," said Stephanie Mohl, vice president of the American Stroke Association. "This year we recognize Deb Shaw as the Survivor Hero for the incredible impact she has made and the work she continues to do to help educate, inspire and raise awareness about stroke."

The winners of the Stroke Hero Awards demonstrate that resilience in the face of change is possible and should be celebrated. Winners were selected by a panel of volunteer judges from the American Stroke Association. Winners receive a plaque and have their stories featured on stroke.org and on the American Stroke Association's social media accounts.

About Champion the Challenges

Champion the Challenges is a non-profit foundation with a mission to help stroke survivors, therapists, family, and friends to reimagine stroke rehabilitation. This is a journey everyone needs to be a part of to achieve the best results. Founded in 2021, Champion the Challenges provides inspiring ideas and helpful resources for everyone to use and share.

https://www.championthechallenges.org/about/debs-stroke-timeline/

https://www.championthechallenges.org/resources/booklets/

https://www.championthechallenges.org/stories/

For media inquiries:
J. Bonasia
Lumina Communications
415-730-5017
champion@luminapr.com

SOURCE Champion the Challenges