Every May, Stroke Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that strokes can happen to anyone, at any age—and that knowing the warning signs can save lives. A stroke is a medical emergency, and recognizing the symptoms early and acting fast can mean the difference between recovery, long-term disability, or even death.
According to the American Stroke Association, learning and sharing the signs of stroke is one of the most powerful ways we can protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.
Learn to B.E. F.A.S.T.
The American Stroke Association promotes the B.E. F.A.S.T. method to help people quickly identify stroke warning signs and take immediate action. Each letter represents a key symptom to watch for:
- B – Balance
Sudden loss of balance, dizziness, or trouble walking may signal a stroke. - E – Eyes (Vision Changes)
Blurred vision, double vision, or sudden loss of sight in one or both eyes are common signs of stroke. - F – Face Drooping
Does one side of the face droop or feel numb? Ask the person to smile—an uneven smile can be a warning sign. - A – Arm Weakness
Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm is another key symptom. Ask the person to raise both arms—does one drift downward?. - S – Speech Difficulty
Slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or trouble understanding speech can indicate a stroke. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. - T – Time to Call 911
If you or someone else experiences any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Do not wait—every minute matters.
Why Acting Fast Matters
When a stroke occurs, blood flow to the brain is disrupted, and brain cells begin to die within minutes. Calling 911 right away ensures emergency responders can begin life‑saving treatment as quickly as possible, which can significantly reduce brain damage and improve recovery outcomes.
Waiting to “see if symptoms go away” can be dangerous. The American Stroke Association emphasizes that quick recognition and rapid response are critical to survival.
Most Strokes Are Preventable
Stroke Awareness Month is also about prevention. The American Stroke Association reports that approximately 80% of strokes are preventable, through managing risk factors like high blood pressure, maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, and following medical advice.
Understanding personal risk factors—and encouraging loved ones to do the same—can help reduce the likelihood of a first or second stroke.
How You Can Help This May
- Learn the B.E. F.A.S.T. signs and share them with family, friends, and coworkers.
- Talk with your healthcare provider about stroke risk factors and prevention strategies.
- Explore free educational tools and resources from the American Stroke Association.
- Use your voice on social media to help spread awareness during Stroke Awareness Month.
This May, let’s come together to save lives by learning the signs of stroke and being ready to act—because when it comes to stroke, every second counts.
Through guided instruction and experiential learning, participants will explore bedside-appropriate techniques such as:
This year’s conference brings together healthcare professionals, caregivers, community members, researchers, social service providers, and aging adults for two days of dynamic learning and collaboration.
Northwest AHEC would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to all phlebotomists for the vital role you play in health care every day. Your skill, precision, and compassion are essential to patient care and clinical decision-making. We celebrate you every week, but highlighting now since this past week was the official recognition week. 
Participants represented a broad spectrum of healthcare education programs, including students from Winston-Salem State University’s Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Nursing, Healthcare Management, Therapeutic Recreation, Rehabilitation Counseling/Services, Social Work, and Clinical Laboratory Science departments. The event also welcomed students from Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s Physician Assistant Studies program and Forsyth Technical Community College’s Nursing program.
This year’s event featured expert-led sessions covering a wide range of critical topics, including healthy aging strategies, cognitive health, dementia care, medication optimization, mobility and fall prevention, and patient-centered decision-making. Breakout workshops allowed for deeper discussion and hands-on learning, while also fostering networking across disciplines.
