Macon, Ga. (April 24, 2025) – On average, someone in the United States dies from a stroke every 3 minutes and 11 seconds, according to the American Heart Association. All told, strokes are responsible for one in every 20 deaths.
On May 15 at 12:30 p.m., Piedmont Macon Medical Center will host stroke survivors across Middle Georgia to participate in the hospital’s 2025 “Stroke Stroll,” a celebration of stroke survivors. Survivors are encouraged to bring family and friends to cheer them on during the event, which will take place in the hospital’s cafeteria at 350 Hospital Drive.
Immediately after the stroll, stroke survivors, their family members, caregivers and friends are invited to stay for Piedmont Macon’s “Strive from Stroke” support group meeting. The group meets from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in the cafeteria on the third Thursday of each month. It allows open dialogue among survivors and features education and awareness speakers and activities.
Strokes occur when the blood supply to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Because up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable, Piedmont Macon is reminding the community that prevention and quick action saves lives. Many of the most common stroke risk factors are within our control.
“Keeping a check on the risk factors we can control is key,” said Monica Cook, stroke program manager at Piedmont Macon. "Hypertension, diabetes and smoking are three major contributors to stroke risk, but they’re also things we can do something about. Small lifestyle changes, knowing your numbers and regular checkups can all have a big impact.”
Additionally, knowing the signs of a stroke and taking immediate action can often lead to better recovery outcomes. In general, rapid recognition and response are key to decreasing the chances of long-term disability. To help identify signs of a stroke, use the acronym B.E.F.A.S.T.:
- Balance – Is there trouble with balance or coordination?
- Eyes – Has the person experienced blurred, double, or loss of vision?
- Face – Look for an uneven smile.
- Arm – Check if one arm or leg is weak or just “doesn’t feel right.”
- Speech – Listen for slurred speech or trouble finding words.
- Time/Terrible Headache – Call 911 right away if you have any of the above symptoms or “the worst headache of your life.”
Cook said every minute matters when it comes to seeking medical care.
“Immediate medical attention is critical to preserving brain function and improving outcomes,” she said. “Ideally, you want to be at a hospital no later than four and a half hours of your last known well time. As soon as stroke symptoms start, don’t hesitate. Call 911 immediately.”
For more information on stroke care at Piedmont Macon, visit www.piedmont.org/stroke.