The City of Fredericksburg was proclaimed Stroke Smart by Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw at a ceremony hosted at the REMS Council on May 25, 2022. The city has become the first locality in the region to proclaim the designation, meaning it’s encouraging people to learn the signs of stroke so they can identify when one happens and immediately call 911. 

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One in 6 of us will suffer a Stroke; every 40 seconds someone has a stroke; every 4 minutes someone dies of a stroke. When it comes to strokes, the clock is ticking. Recognizing stroke symptoms early and getting to the hospital quickly are critical to limiting brain damage and improving recovery.

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Strokes are the #1 cause of long-term disability in the U.S. and will be suffered by one in six people.  Although effective treatment can leave the patient with no lasting effects, fewer than 10% of stroke patients access that treatment in time, often because they don’t recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke.

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COPE intends to educate everyone who lives, works, prays, and plays in the City of Fredericksburg to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke and to call 911 when they spot a stroke or are unsure. Symptoms can come and go, may be different for each person depending on the part of the brain affected, and may mimic other healthcare concerns. Sudden onset of dizziness, nausea, balance problems, vision changes, body weakness, and numbness are common stroke symptoms. 

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Becoming Stroke Smart means answering just three questions correctly!