October newsletter 2024
Did you know that World Stroke Day is on October 29th? This year's theme is all about the importance of getting active.
In this issue...
In this issue of your Stroke Foundation newsletter, you’ll learn about why getting active can reduce your risk of stroke, hear from a stroke survivor who credits her incredible recovery with staying active, and learn how you can go in the draw to win some goodies...
What is World Stroke Day?
World Stroke Day is on October 29th. It is organised by the World Stroke Organisation and provides an annual focal point for stroke awareness activity around the world. By joining together globally to raise awareness of stroke, it can motivate us all to take action every day to reduce our stroke risk.
This year's theme is Let’s get active everyday to be #GreaterThan stroke.
How does being active reduce my risk of stroke?
According to the World Stroke Organisation, 1 million strokes a year are linked to physical inactivity. In New Zealand, less than half of adults are physically active - which means there are a huge amount of Kiwis at high risk of stroke. Regular exercise helps you to maintain a healthy blood pressure, and with high blood pressure being a major risk factor of stroke, this is one practical way you can reduce your own risk. Just 30 minutes of exercise five times a week can reduce your risk of stroke by 25%.
What if I'm a stroke survivor?
If you are a stroke survivor, regular exercise can reduce your risk of having another stroke, your risk of developing dementia, improve your recovery, help with fatigue and improve your general well-being. Even if your mobility is affected by stroke, there is likely to be some kind of exercise that works for you. A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can help you find exercises that work for you.
There is also a guide available on the Stroke Foundation's website that has practical exercise suggestions for people recovering from a stroke.
Kylie's story
18 year old Kylie was visiting New Zealand for a rowing programme when she had a stroke. Two years on, Kylie has taught herself to write left-handed, is rowing again, and credits her amazing recovery to her dedication to staying active.
Stroke can devastate lives - but the good news is that up to 90% of strokes are preventable. Taking time to be active every day is one huge step in reducing your stroke risk, and reducing the number of Kiwis affected by stroke. The smallest step still makes a difference. Join us this World Stroke Day to be #GreaterThan stroke.
Noho ora mai, stay well
Jo Lambert
Chief Executive Officer | The Stroke Foundation of New Zealand