We had a huge scare on April 1, 2005. My husband, who had just turned 58, had a stroke.



I waited 5 1/2 hours before seeking medical treatment. I thought it was "just" another instance of episodic high blood pressure, and it could wait until the VA clinic opened.



Now I know that he had 4 of the 5 warning signs of a stoke. We are lucky that it appears to have been a "minor" stroke. The doctor told me if it ever happened again, he needed to be taken to a hospital within the hour, to prevent permanent and extended damage.



Knowledge is power. Be prepared! The following information comes from the National Stroke Association website (www.strokeassociation.org)



Stroke is a medical emergency.

Know these warning signs of stroke and teach them to others.

Every second counts:

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body

Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding

Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

Sudden, severe headache with no known cause



Call 9-1-1 immediately if you experience symptoms!

Time lost is brain lost!