Stroke Awareness Walk Steps Off Saturday at CentraCare Health Plaza

(KNSI) – May is Stroke Awareness Month, and the Minnesota Stroke Association is marking it with the Strides for Stroke Walk this Saturday in St. Cloud.

On-site registration opens at 9:00 a.m. at CentraCare Health Plaza, located at 1900 CentraCare Circle. Announcements and stroke honoree recognition begin at 9:45 a.m., with the walk stepping off at 10:00 a.m.

Organizers say the walk gives families and friends a chance to honor stroke survivors while raising money for programs that benefit Minnesotans living with the effects of stroke. Since 2010, more than 7,750 walkers have participated statewide, raising over $500,000 in donations and sponsorships.

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death and one of the leading causes of disability in the state. The Minnesota Stroke Association is reminding people to know the warning signs by remembering the acronym BEFAST: balance loss, eyesight changes, face weakness, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and time to call 911. Fast access to stroke care is critical to minimizing long-term effects.

To reduce stroke risk, health officials recommend regulating blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

A $25 donation is suggested for participants. T-shirts have already been assigned to teams, but organizers say they will do their best to accommodate late registrations. Walkers can sign up as individuals, join a team, or create their own team through the Minnesota Stroke Association.

For more information, click here.

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