Roll up, bowl up and learn about stroke
25 August 2010
Armidale Hospital staff will be celebrating National Stroke Week (12-19 September) by hosting the second Armidale Community Stroke Forum and Lawn Bowls Day for anybody with an interest in stroke.
The forum, organised by local Stroke Care Coordinator Melissa Gill, will be held at Armidale City Bowling Club, Dumaresq St, Armidale on Tuesday 14 September between 9.30am and 4pm.
“Stroke is a major health issue across Australia,” Ms Gill said. “About 60,000 new and recurrent strokes happen every year – that’s one every 10 minutes.
“Stroke can happen to anyone, at any age, which is why we’re trying to raise awareness about stroke, as well as help people learn how to recognise the signs of stroke and what they can do to lower their risk.
“Based on the success of last year’s forum, we were keen to run another one this year inviting different speakers and with some free lawn bowls as well to get us all up and going.”
Throughout the day there will be presentations on a variety of topics including an update on the Home Medicines Review service, how to recognise the signs and symptoms of stroke, support for carers and a great relaxation session.
Getting to hospital FAST is the most important thing to remember, and the FAST letters are an easy way to recognise the signs of stroke:
Face – check the person’s face. Has their mouth or eye drooped?
Arms – can the person raise both arms?
Speech – can the person speak clearly and understand what you are saying to them?
Time is critical. If you recognise any of these signs of stroke, call 000 straight away, because stroke is a medical emergency!
“Early treatment can make a big difference in the way someone recovers from stroke,” Ms Gill said.
“That’s why being able to recognise the signs and symptoms of a stroke, and get to hospital quickly is so important.”
For further details about the forum or to RSVP for the event contact Melissa Gill at Armidale Hospital on 0439 474 808.
Contact: Emma Gibbs
Phone: (02) 6767 7137 or 0428 114 767