October 29th, 2026 is World Stroke Day

STROKE? DON’T WAIT. EVERY MINUTE COUNTS.

Did you know that 1 in 4 of us are at risk of a stroke in our lifetime? Today, October 29th, is World Stroke Day, and we are joining the global community to remind everyone that #EveryMinuteCounts. When a stroke occurs, brain cells begin to die, but early recognition and rapid treatment can drastically improve survival, reduce disability, and support long-term recovery.

For the best chance of receiving time-sensitive, life-saving stroke treatments, you must arrive at the hospital within 3.5 hours of your first symptom.

Commit the B.E. F.A.S.T. warning signs to memory today:

• 🎈 B – Balance Loss: Sudden dizziness, trouble walking, or loss of coordination.

• 👀 E – Eye Changes: Blurred, double, or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.

• 👤 F – Face Drooping: One side of the face appears uneven or drops.

• 💪 A – Arm Weakness: One arm feels weak or drifts downward.

• 💬 S – Speech Difficulty: Speech is slurred or difficult to understand.

• 📞 T – Time to Call 911: Call emergency services immediately if symptoms begin!

At MDI Hospital, we are proud to provide timely, evidence-based stroke care for our coastal and rural communities. Our care is fully aligned with the American Heart Association stroke guidelines, and we are honored to have received the AHA Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Rural Recognition Bronze Award for advancing rural health outcomes.

If you see the signs, don’t wait for them to pass. Call 911 immediately.