Stroke Awareness: What Every Heart and Mind Should Know 🤍

At Alex And Andy, stroke awareness isn’t just something we talk about, it’s part of our story and our purpose. When Uncle Andy experienced a life changing stroke, his world shifted. What could have been a chapter of loss became one of resilience, courage, and rebirth. Through his journey, we learned something powerful: understanding stroke, its signs, its urgency, and its prevention...can save lives.

Today we want to share what stroke is, why awareness matters, and how you can make a difference.

🧠 What Is a Stroke?

A stroke, often called a “brain attack”,  happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. This prevents brain cells from getting the oxygen and nutrients they need, causing them to die within minutes.

There are two main types:

• Ischemic stroke: caused by a clot blocking blood flow to the brain.

• Hemorrhagic stroke: caused by bleeding in the brain from a ruptured blood vessel.

Even brief, temporary strokes, called TIA or “mini-strokes”, are critical warning signs and should never be ignored.

⚠️ Recognizing the Signs — Act Fast

When it comes to stroke, every second counts. Quick action can reduce the risk of long term disability or even death. Knowing the warning signs can save lives.

Learn and remember B.E.  F.A.S.T.:

• B —  Balance: Is their balance off? Are they wobbly? 

• E — Eyes: Can the person see clearly? Is their vision blurred?

• F — Face drooping: Does one side of the face droop when smiling?

• A — Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms evenly?

• S — Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred or strange?

• T — Time to call 911 right away.

If you notice any of these signs, even if they seem temporary, call emergency services immediately.

📊 Important Facts to Know

• Stroke is a leading cause of serious long term disability and a major cause of death.

• Stroke can happen at any age, even to young adults, though risk increases with age.

• Up to 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle choices and managing health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.

❤️ How You Can Help — Beyond Awareness

Learning the signs and talking about stroke is powerful. But there are other ways your involvement matters:

1. Know Your Risk & Take Action
Talk with your doctor about lifestyle changes like controlling blood pressure, eating well, staying active, and managing chronic conditions.

2. Support Survivors and Caregivers
Life after stroke isn’t just physical, it’s emotional too. Support groups, rehabilitation resources, and community networks can lift survivors and their families when they need it most.

3. Share the Knowledge
Spread the word about B.E. F.A.S.T. and stroke prevention in your family, workplace, and community. Your voice might be the reason someone gets help in time.

📚 Helpful Resources

Below are trusted organizations with tools, guides, and community support:

• American Stroke Association: Information on stroke signs, prevention, and recovery.

• Stroke Support Groups and Resources: Connect with others who understand the journey.

• Stroke Rehabilitation Guides: Practical tools and guides for life after stroke.

If you or a loved one are navigating stroke recovery or seeking more information, you are not alone! Support is available every step of the way.

🕯️ Why Awareness Matters

Stroke touches millions of lives each year but when we learn, share, and act, we turn knowledge into strength. Uncle Andy’s story is one of transformation: from hardship to creativity, from challenge to purpose. It reminds us that every life worth living is worth protecting. And awareness, your awareness, is one of the greatest gifts you can give another person.

Thank you for learning, caring, and being part of a community that chooses hope, education, and connection. Together, we can spread awareness, support survivors, and make a real difference. One story, one life, one heart at a time.

Much Love,

Uncle Andy and Sophie