Strike Out Stroke: HealthyU Wellness Seminar Teaches Stroke Signs that Everyone Should Know

5/14/2025

Every second counts when a stroke occurs, which is why it is critical to recognize early warning signs so that patients have the best chance at recovery and survival.

Northwest Health – La Porte will host a free community seminar called “Stroke Out Stroke: Know the Signs, Know the Risks” from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in the Pine Lake Conference Room, 1331 State St. During the HealthyU community wellness seminar, Amanda Elkins, BSN, RN, stroke coordinator, will discuss stroke awareness and prevention, including the different types of strokes, their causes, warning signs and key risk factors. She will also share practical tips for reducing your risk and staying healthy.

Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 610,000 of these are first or new strokes. Nearly 87% of all strokes are ischemic strokes where blood flow to the brain is blocked. Stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability and can reduce mobility in more than half of stroke survivors age 65 and older. However, while a person’s stroke risk increases with age, strokes can occur at any age.

“Knowing the warning signs and symptoms of stroke can help you act fast if someone near you is having a stroke,” Elkins said. “Studies show that patients who arrive at the ER within three hours of first experiencing symptoms often experience fewer disabilities in the long-term than those who receive delayed care.”

Risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure and cholesterol, smoking, obesity and diabetes. The CDC reports that at least 1 in 3 U.S. adults have one or more of these conditions. However, there are several steps a person can take to prevent a stroke, including diet, exercise and preventative checks.

“This seminar offers the tools you need to take control of your health,” Elkins said. “It’s a chance to learn how to spot the signs of stroke, reduce risk and make your health a priority before a crisis happens.”

Registration is encouraged and can be completed by sending the names and email addresses of those attending to Wellness@NWHealthIN.com.

For more information on this free event, call 219-262-6446.

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