ACROSS ILLINOIS – State Representative Amy Grant is urging all Illinoisans to recognize the signs of a stroke and be prepared to act swiftly to save lives for World Stroke Day.
October 29th is World Stroke Day and a reminder that every minute counts when it comes to stroke and knowing the warning signs can make all the difference.
The acronym F.A.S.T has been used to educate and promote awareness around strokes. It stands for:
- F – Face Drooping: Is one side of the face numb or drooping? Ask the person to smile to check for unevenness.
- A – Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. If one drifts downward, it’s a warning sign.
- S – Speech Difficulty: Is speech slurred or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, checking for clarity.
- T – Time to Call 911: If you see any of these signs, don’t wait – call 911 immediately.
“Knowing the F.A.S.T. method and acting quickly can save lives and reduce the impact of stroke,” said Rep. Grant. “On World Stroke Day, let’s all commit to learning the signs and sharing them with loved ones.”
For more information on stroke prevention and resources, please visit https://www.world-stroke.org/world-stroke-day-campaign