Make May Purple is an annual event to raise awareness of strokes and their impacts on sufferers and their families and to educate the general public on the signs and symptoms.
A stroke is an attack on the brain and happens when the blood supply is cut off, and urgent treatment is essential, as the sooner the individual receives care, the less damage is likely to happen. The effects of strokes can be permanent, and although some people can make a full recovery, often care is needed.
“There are now 1.3 million stroke survivors in the UK. This number is growing and, as a charity, our services have never been more stretched”
Stroke Association
The main symptoms of a stroke can be remembered by the acronym FAST:
- Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile.
- Arms – the person may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness.
- Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake. They may also have problems understanding what you’re saying to them.
- Time – it’s time to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms.
The Stroke Association helps stroke survivors and their families to rebuild their lives in a way that no one else can. Their specialist support helps them find the hope they need to move forward with their recovery, and they need your help. Visit their website to find out more about their work and research projects, or to donate what you can.
