Women's Institute Lecture
05 January 2010
Worcestershire WI Members Encouraged to Act FAST
During November staff from The Stroke Association were invited to deliver a talk on stroke to Women's Institute (WI) members in the context of their annual Lucy Hingley Lecture.
The lecture was well attended with 120 members in attendance from 40 WIs throughout Worcestershire.
Jeannette Baldwin, Family and Carer Support Coordinator for the Wye Forest area of Worcestershire, spoke to the members about stroke and how to spot a stroke using the FAST (Face – Arms – Speech – Time to cal 999) test.She also explained what the effects of stroke are, and how the risk of stroke can be minimised.
The Lucy Hingley lecture is held in memory of a former County Chair, who was involved with the WI for 22 years, until her death in 1942.
In Lucy's memory, money was raised to endow a bed in the old Worcester Royal Infirmary and to provide furniture for WI House. Since her death this annual lecture is held in her memory, on matters concerning health.
The West Midlands Regional Team are currently running a series of events throughout Worcestershire and Herefordshire to raise awareness of stroke and how to recognise a stroke and Act Fast.
Stroke is a medical emergency and by calling 999 you can help someone reach hospital quickly and receive the early treatment they need.
Prompt action can prevent further damage to the brain and help someone make a full recovery. Delay can result in death or major long-term disabilities, such as paralysis, severe memory loss and communication problems (aphasia).
If you would like someone to talk to your group about stroke contact Verity McGivern.
