Gloucester Pharmacy held free health checks and a fundraising morning tea on Tuesday, September 5 as part of National Stroke Week which ran from September 4 to 10.
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Gloucester Pharmacy owner, Li Meng Wong is helping the Stroke Foundation ensure someone in every Australian household knows the signs of stroke and to call 000.
“Stroke kills more women than breast cancer, more men than prostate cancer and leaves thousands with an ongoing disability.
“Yet, it doesn’t have to be this way,’’ she said.
“Stroke can be treated. But people need to get to hospital quickly.”
Ms Wong said FAST spelt out Face, Arms, Speech and Time.
“It is easy to remember and could save your own life or that of a loved one,’’ she said.
“Ask yourself these questions if you are confronted with a medical emergency you suspect may be a stroke. Has the person’s mouth drooped? Can they lift both arms? Is their speech slurred? If the answer to any of these is ‘yes’, call an ambulance straight away.”
Stroke Foundation chief executive officer, Sharon McGowan said Lyne residents were expected to suffer 553 strokes this year alone.
“Stroke is always a medical emergency and time is critical. Almost 1.9 million brain cells die each minute, so it is important to recognise the signs of a stroke and seek medical help as soon as possible,’’ Ms McGowan said.
“With the right treatment at the right time, many people are able to make a full recovery.
“I am proud of Gloucester Pharmacy for making an effort to raise awareness of stroke and FAST during Stroke Week this September.
“Please join the “FAST Response Team” this September and share the signs of stroke with your family, friends and colleagues. You could save their lives,” Ms McGowan said.