The American Heart Association’s Getting to the Heart of Stroke initiative™, developed in conjunction with and supported by HCA Healthcare and the HCA Healthcare Foundation, includes a specific focus in the First Coast to help address local barriers to health equity and improve health outcomes, in addition to providing consumer and health care professional education nationwide
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JACKSONVILLE, FLA – May 1, 2023 – May is National Stroke Month and the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, is working with HCA Healthcare Foundation to spread awareness about the dangers of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The Getting to the Heart of Stroke partnership aims to educate people about the risk factors associated with stroke and provide resources to help prevent and manage this life-threatening condition.
According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, claiming over 17.9 million lives every year. Stroke is a major type of cardiovascular disease and the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, someone in the US suffers a stroke every 40 seconds, and someone dies from a stroke every 4 minutes.
"The HCA Healthcare Foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that promote community health and well-being," said Lisa R. Valentine, CEO of HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital. "We are proud to support the American Heart Association's efforts to raise awareness about the risks of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Through our collaboration, we hope to educate people about the risk factors associated with stroke and provide them with the resources they need to protect their health and prevent these life-altering events."
“Stroke can be a devastating event if not recognized and treated immediately,” said Albert E. Holt, IV, MD, MBA, Chief Medical Officer of HCA Florida Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville. “We want to make sure that everyone in the community not only knows how to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke, but also knows how to get help and treatment.”
The American Heart Association recommends that individuals take steps to reduce their risk of stroke by managing their blood pressure, quitting smoking, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet. The organization also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the warning signs of stroke and seeking immediate medical attention.
"National Stroke Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the risks of cardiovascular disease, encourage individuals to take action to prevent stroke, and share the importance of early intervention," said Caitlin Brunell, executive director of the American Heart Association First Coast. "We are grateful for the support of the HCA Healthcare Foundation the opportunity to work locally with HCA Florida Healthcare, which will help us expand our efforts to reach more individuals and communities."
As part of this partnership, the HCA Healthcare Foundation and the American Heart Association will be sharing information on social media throughout the month of May and are hosting an educational event at the 2023 First Coast Go Red for Women Health Summit and Luncheon on Friday, May 12th from 10-2pm at Florida Blue Conference Center. They encourage everyone to learn more about stroke prevention and management and to take steps to protect their health.
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About the HCA Healthcare Foundation: The HCA Healthcare Foundation is a 501(c)(3) foundation established by HCA Healthcare in 2005. The Foundation provides financial support to organizations and programs that improve health and well-being, support education and workforce development, and promote community and civic initiatives. For more information, visit www.hcafoundation.org.
About the American Heart Association: The American Heart Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. The organization funds innovative research provides education and support for healthcare professionals and patients, and advocates for policies that promote heart health. For more information, visit www.heart.org.
Media Contact:
Marissa Cockrell
Director of Communications/Marketing
American Heart Association First Coast
Phone: 484.919.3185
Email: marissa.cockrell@heart.org