Stroke survivor calling for greater awareness this world stroke day
The Stroke Association says stroke is the fourth biggest killer in the UK
A young man who once featured as an extra on Game of Thrones and suffered a stroke in his 40s is calling on the public to educate themselves about the after effects.
It comes this world stroke day.
Jason Brown from County Armagh had a stroke in 2020 and is continuing his recovery.
However, he says the after effects of a stroke are not well known and is calling for greater awareness across Northern Ireland.
He tells us about the impact on his life:
"Every day does get better.
"What I would say to people who haven't had a stroke and are with somebody who has had a stroke, is research, research, research.
"Be gentle with them, you have to understand it's a brain injury it's not a physical injury, it's not like breaking your leg."
According to the Stroke Association every day in the UK, 240 people of all ages wake up to the impact of stroke unable to move, see, speak, or even swallow.
Yet new survey results from the charity found people are worryingly uninformed about stroke and the risk it poses to health as well as long-term quality of life.
The Department of Health is reminding people of the importance of swift action if they suspect someone is suffering a stroke.
Minister Mike Nesbitt said: “This World Stroke Day, the theme is ‘Every Minute Counts’, which highlights the importance of recognising the signs of stroke and acting fast.
“I would encourage everyone in Northern Ireland to be a ‘stroke hero’ and learn the signs of stroke to help prevent the devastating impact they have.
"Every minute saved increases the chances of a full recovery.
If you spot a sign of stroke, call 999 immediately.”
The F.A.S.T approach is a tool to help check for any of these signs of stroke:
• Face - Has it fallen on one side?
• Arms - Can they raise them?
• Speech - Is it slurred?
• Time - make the call immediately, dial 999
The Minister added: “There are approximately 3,000 strokes in Northern Ireland each year, and up to 90% are preventable.
"You can significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke through leading a healthy lifestyle; eating healthy, taking regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake and not smoking.
"This World Stroke Day, I hope that people learn the signs of stroke, act fast and reflect on how they can take steps to reduce their risk of stroke.”
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