Whereas stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States, and each year approximately 800,000 people in the United States experience a stroke;

Whereas stroke can happen to anyone, at any age, and recognizing stroke warning signs and calling 911 quickly can significantly reduce death and disability from stroke;

Whereas the stroke warning signs acronym B.E. F.A.S.T. helps people recognize the symptoms of stroke: Balance loss, Eye or vision changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call 911;

Whereas high blood pressure is the leading risk factor for stroke, and managing blood pressure along with healthy every day choices such as eating well, moving more, and not using tobacco or nicotine can significantly reduce stroke risk;

Whereas having a stroke increases the risk of another one, and understanding personal risk factors and working with health care professionals to manage those risks can help prevent future strokes; and

Whereas, during American Stroke Month in May, the American Stroke Association’s Together to End Stroke® initiative, works to educate communities that stroke is largely preventable, treatable and beatable: Now, therefore, be it