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SGMC to host annual stroke symposium

Posted on: April 28th, 2015

4/28/2015

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death, killing more than 137,000 people each year, and the foremost cause of disability in the United States. South Georgia Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Services will host its annual stroke symposium, an educational lunch and learn, to spotlight stroke prevention and offer support for stroke survivors, caregivers and family members.

The event is free to the public and scheduled for Wed., May 13 from 10am to 2pm at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center located at 1805 West Hill Avenue in Valdosta. Registration is required by calling 229.259.4290. SGMC’s Code Stroke Medical Director and Neurologist Brian Dawson, MD will present along with representatives from EMS Mobile Healthcare Services and Insight Therapy Services. Community healthcare vendors will also be available to provide additional resources to guests.

According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts (or ruptures). When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen) it needs, so it and brain cells die. The acronym FAST is an easy way to remember the sudden signs of stroke which include F: Facial Drooping, A: Arm Weakness, S: Speech Difficulty, and T: Time to Call 911. For more information visit www.sgmc.org/stroke.