Top: Steve, Cynthia
and James Stephens, Dr. Mark Hass
Bottom: Bob Thornton and Dr. Mary Boyle |
On this installment of Families in Focus, we discuss
the latest treatment and prevention of strokes.
Stroke is a type of cardiovascular disease. It affects
the arteries leading to and within the brain. A stroke occurs
when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to
the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that
happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen)
it needs, so it starts to die.
- American Stroke Association
The panel looks at the two broad categories of stroke causes
(ischemic and hemorrhagic), risk factors, prevention strategies,
symptoms, rehabilitation, the effect on the patient and
family, and new technologies that improve chances of survival
and recovery without disability. Guests include physicians,
stroke survivors, a caregiver, and a speech-language pathologist.
Stroke is the third leading cause if death in the United
States, and is a leading cause of serious disability. Given
its prevalence, it is clear that millions of families nationwide
are dealing with these issues everyday and are likely in
need of guidance and support.
Tape Piece: (Leandra Little) We follow
the story of stroke survivor John Keefe who had a stroke
in November, 2005. Fortunately, he was actually in his doctor’s
office when he noticed he couldn’t move his arm. His
doctor, realizing what was happening, gave him an aspirin
and called 911. John was taken to the Holy Name Hospital
Primary Stroke Center where he was triaged and given immediate
treatment; including a CAT scan. He has fully recovered.
We also talk with Director of Therapy, Lauren McDonagh at
Kessler; Donna Stringer, Director The primary Stroke Center
at Holy Name Hospital and John's Neurologist, Dr. Patricia
Klein.
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Guests
Dr. Mark Hass - Medical Director of the Stroke
Center at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck, New Jersey.
Dr. Mary Boyle – A Speech-language
pathologist and Associate Professor of Communication Sciences
and Disorders at Montclair State University.
Cynthia Stephans and her husband James
- Cynthia had a stroke when she was six months pregnant.
Bob Thornton – Survivor of two strokes.
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