Whereas quick identification and treatment for stroke results in a higher chance of survival and reduces recovery time for individuals experiencing a stroke;

Whereas treatment depends on the type of stroke someone is having, which must be diagnosed by a health care professional;

Whereas, when dealing with a time-sensitive medical emergency like a stroke, the right care, at the right time, at the right facility, is of the utmost importance;

Whereas a system of care allows for scientifically proven measures to be applied to every patient, every time;

Whereas, every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke;

Whereas stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability and the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States, causing more than 160,000 deaths each year;

Whereas nearly 1/2 of adults in the United States have high blood pressure, which is a leading cause and controllable risk factor for stroke;

Whereas the F.A.S.T. warning signs and symptoms of stroke include face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and time to call 911;

Whereas, during American Stroke Month in May, and year-round, the Together to End Stroke initiative of the American Stroke Association strives to teach people everywhere that stroke is largely preventable, treatable, and beatable; and

Whereas more research and education is needed to help prevent and treat stroke: Now, therefore, be it