Someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds, and every 3.5 minutes a stroke claims a life.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke each year, and strokes are the fifth-leading leading cause of death in this country.

On May 18 at 1 p.m., Piedmont Macon Medical Center will honor stroke survivors during the 2023 “Stroke Stroll,” when survivors walk a victory lap while being cheered on by hospital staff. The Stroke Stroll will take place in the cafeteria of Piedmont Macon, 350 Hospital Drive.

Following the stroll, survivors, family members, caregivers and friends are encouraged to stay for the debut of Piedmont Macon’s “Strive from Stroke” support group meeting. The group, which will meet from 1 to 2:30 p.m. the third Thursday of each month, offers open dialogue among stroke survivors and serves as a platform for stroke education and awareness, said Monica Cook, stroke coordinator for Piedmont Macon and one of the speakers at the event.

Knowing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly can help lead to better outcomes. However, it is also important to know the risk factors and how to improve them.

The key to optimal recovery of a stroke and decreasing disability is to B.E.F.A.S.T.:

Balance – Is there trouble with balance or coordination?
Eyes – Has the person experienced blurred, double, or loss of vision?
Face – Look for an uneven smile.
Arm – Check if one arm or leg is weak or just “doesn’t feel right.”
Speech – Listen for slurred speech or trouble finding words.
Time/Terrible Headache – Call 911 right away if you have any of the above symptoms or “the worst headache of your life.”

In large part, strokes can be prevented with proper health care, according to the CDC. In fact, 80 percent of all strokes are preventable. Controlling high blood pressure is the single-most important action someone can take to help prevent a stroke. Keeping cholesterol, weight and diabetes at manageable levels also are key, as well as stopping smoking.

“I’m excited about the Strive from Stroke support group,” Cook said. “Not only will it offer a resource to the people in the Macon community, but it also will offer a safe place for people who may be in a difficult place in life as they recover from a stroke. Our goal is to encourage, offer resources and give a sense of empowerment.”