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How F.A.S.T. can you recognize signs of a stroke?

Published

6 months ago

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

Your co-worker is sitting at his desk, typing on his computer. He suddenly stops and looks confused, rubbing his temple. Noticing his discomfort you ask, “Are you okay?” He replies slurring, “I… I don’t know. I feel… strange.”  “You don’t look so good,” you tell him. “Let me check something; can you smile for me?” He attempts to smile, but only one side of his mouth moves. “Okay, that’s Face,” you say to yourself. “One side is drooping.” “Can you lift both of your arms for me?” He raises his right arm, but his left arm stays limp by his side. “Arm weakness, got it.” “Can you repeat this sentence, ‘The sky is blue?’” He slurs heavily, “Th… Th… The sky… is… blue.” “Speech is slurred,” you note. “I think you might be having a stroke…”

An article titled, “Burden of Stroke and Population Attributable Fractions of Risk Factors in Latin America and the Caribbean,” reported that stroke burden and stroke-related mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are higher than the worldwide averages. However, stroke is a highly preventable disease in this region. Up to 90% of the burden could be reduced by targeting two modifiable factors: blood pressure and body mass index.

I wanted to research this topic a little more due to the fact that cardiovascular disease is prevalent in the Afro-Indo Caribbean community. I came across another article titled, “Prevalence and Incidence of Stroke in Latin America and the Caribbean; a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis,” and it found that smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle have increased in the last years in the LAC region specifically in Cuba.

Stroke continues to rise in Canada – more strokes are happening, and more people are living with stroke due to the aging population. It is important to note that since the onset of the pandemic, and the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccine, more younger people are having strokes. I note this because there are reports that we will be publishing and have published that have directly correlated a link between the certain vaccines, and an increase in strokes. It is not the focus of this article, but I want to ensure that we as citizens of Canada do not lose sight of what has been happening without us noticing it.

Based on the latest analysis from a Heart & Stroke funded study there are now approximately 108,707 strokes each year in Canada. That is roughly one stroke every five minutes. According to the most current and complete prevalence data, almost one million people in Canada are now living with stroke. Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability.

June is Stroke Month in Canada and Heart & Stroke is celebrating 10 years of raising awareness across the country around the importance of recognizing the FAST signs of stroke and the need to call 9-1-1 right away to get to the best hospital for stroke care. While progress has been made, more needs to be done to promote this life-saving information across the population.

In 2014 Heart & Stroke launched the FAST campaign as a simple and effective way to help Canadians recognize and remember the most common signs of stroke and know to act right away:

Face – is it drooping?

Arms – can you raise both?

Speech – Is it slurred or jumbled?

Time to call 9-1-1 right away.

Recognizing the signs of stroke and acting quickly (as demonstrated in the introductory scene) can mean the difference between life and death, or the difference between a better recovery and a lasting disability.

“Since launching the FAST signs of stroke campaign awareness has increased significantly,” says Dr. Patrice Lindsay, Lead, Stroke Best Practices Strategy, Heart & Stroke. “Working with governments and corporate, community, and health partners and with the support of our donors we have amplified the messages across the country. These messages need to be regularly repeated and targeted strategies are required to ensure they reach everyone.”

Heart & Stroke has been polling around recall of the FAST signs of stroke since the campaign launched. The results have clearly shown that while much progress has been made, not enough Canadians recognize the signs of stroke, and factors such as: gender, age and place of birth affect awareness. The FAST campaign recall poll results reveal much progress:

  • The number of Canadians who can name at least two FAST signs of stroke has doubled over the past almost ten years from two in 10 to over four in 10.
  • Over the past three years alone the number of Canadians who can name at least two FAST signs of stroke has increased from three in 10 to more than four in 10.
  • Nearly six in 10 Canadians who have seen or heard the FAST campaign can name at least two of the FAST signs of stroke, compared to less than four in 10 of those who are not aware of the campaign.
  • Women are more aware of the FAST signs of stroke than men.
  • Older Canadians are more familiar with the signs of stroke and more likely to act.
  • Newcomers are significantly less aware of the FAST signs of stroke and less likely to call 9-1-1 right away compared with those born in Canada.
  • Many ethnically diverse communities are less likely to be familiar with the FAST signs of stroke.

If you are aware of cardiovascular diseases running in your family, it is crucial to take proactive care of your health. Pay close attention to how you feel physically and be vigilant for any signs of a stroke. Should you notice any symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Your prompt action can make a significant difference.

Related Topics:

We, as humans are guaranteed certain things in life: stressors, taxes, bills and death are the first thoughts that pop to mind. It is not uncommon that many people find a hard time dealing with these daily life stressors, and at times will find themselves losing control over their lives. Simone Jennifer Smith’s great passion is using the gifts that have been given to her, to help educate her clients on how to live meaningful lives. The Hear to Help Team consists of powerfully motivated individuals, who like Simone, see that there is a need in this world; a need for real connection. As the founder and Director of Hear 2 Help, Simone leads a team that goes out into the community day to day, servicing families with their educational, legal and mental health needs.Her dedication shows in her Toronto Caribbean newspaper articles, and in her role as a host on the TCN TV Network.

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Toronto Caribbean Newspaper visits the RIU Aquarelle Jamaica: This is going to be one hell of a ride!

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

I was sitting at my desk, with a look of pure excitement on my face. I looked at the email on the screen and read it aloud. “Jamaica, here we come! Again!” I let out a hearty laugh. I still can’t believe it. Another trip to Jamaica, the land of sun, sea, and endless joy. But this time, it’s different. This time, I’m not just a tourist. I’m representing the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, and we had been invited to experience something truly extraordinary.

Imagine this: one of the most beautiful places on earth, and one of the most luxurious hotel chains in the world. It was like a dream come true. At that point, I leaned back in my chair, a wide grin spread across your face.

In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing firsthand experiences of RIU’s impactful work in Jamaica. You’ll get a glimpse into the remarkable offerings of RIU Aquarelle, from its luxurious accommodations to its vibrant entertainment. Together, we’ll embark on a journey to the Orthopaedic Clinic in Negril, unwind at the Ritz Cafe, savour a delectable lunch at RIU Palace Tropical Bay, explore the wonders of the Montego Bay Marine Park, connect with the passionate team at the Jamaica Tourist Board, and dance the night away at an exhilarating White Party.

Before we dive into these exciting adventures, I’d like to introduce you to the incredible travel team who will be accompanying me on this unforgettable trip: Ian Stalker, Karen Dahdah, Michael Schoenberger, Michelle Richmond, Peta-Gai Innerarity, Ronald Fanfair, Jorge Satorre (RIU Communication Team), Albert Puig (RIU Communication Director), and Janet Silvera (Jamaica PR Consultant).

What truly elevates a trip is the company you keep. I’m fortunate to say that this press trip was made exceptional by the incredible group I had the pleasure of working with. Whether we were playfully teasing each other, engaging in friendly banter, or orchestrating lighthearted pranks, the camaraderie and shared laughter were the heart of this adventure. It was the people who made this trip truly unforgettable.

Now, let’s introduce the organization that brought this incredible group together. RIU Hotels & Resorts (which has almost 100 hotels in 21 countries) is a hotel chain that was born in 1953 with a small hotel in Playa de Palma, Spain. Their more than 60 years of experience pampering their customers in the world’s best destinations attest to the mission of the company: the well-being of their guests.

RIU Hotels & Resorts is known for many things, including: its commitment to quality, its outstanding facilities in the best beach and city destinations and its wide variety of carefully prepared dining options, but above all, it is known for providing a personalized service from the heart. Their carefully designed facilities ensure that you have everything you need, and we have created a range of services to complement your stay with great food, fun and relaxation.

The company works day in and day out to continue offering the best facilities and exclusive services. All of them offer guaranteed quality and a standard of service that will make your holiday a one-of-a-kind experience. They are designed to give you the freedom to do, eat or drink whatever you want, whenever you want. Simply put, exactly how you like it.

The service at the RIU hotel was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and efficient check-in. The staff were attentive, friendly, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure our stay was unforgettable. The housekeeping was impeccable, the dining options were diverse and delicious, and the poolside service was prompt and courteous. The overall atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making our vacation truly memorable.

I can’t wait to soak up the sun, feel the sand between my toes, and dive into the crystal-clear waters, but most importantly, I can’t wait to share this incredible experience with all of you. Stay tuned, folks. This is going to be one hell of a ride!

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“We need more Funding!” Toronto Caribbean Festival request $2 Million dollars from the Government of Canada

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY PAUL JUNOR

The announcement that the Toronto Caribbean Festival will need more funding did not come as a surprise. CEO Mischka Crichton of the Festival Management Committee has reported that the festival may be cancelled next year if it does not receive two million in emergency funding to cover costs. In an email, she states, “Securing funding now is essential as we begin preparations for next year’s festival, including marketing, vendor and artist agreements, and material sourcing for bands and customs.”

“Budget allocations must be established well in advance to ensure that we can deliver the high-quality experience visitors expect. With inflation and production costs continuing to rise, timely financial support is crucial for sustaining the Carnival’s legacy and impact.”

In order to provide clarification about the funding, a petition was started at the website: www.torontocarnival.ca/petition. There is a pressing need of two million to cover expenses from the 2024 Carnival and $1.5 million from the federal and provincial governments to sustain it. Crichton raised the possibility that the festival may be cancelled entirely, or a few events if extra funding is not obtained. Crichton reinforced that it is important that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is maintained as a non-profit organization. She notes, “The Carnival is a community-driven festival offering mostly free events that prioritize making sure our community can afford to attend the events we do charge for, as well as cultural enrichment.”

Dr. Jill Andrew, MPP of Toronto-St. Paul raised the issue of underfunding in the Ontario Legislature on October 28th, 2024, and asked Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario to step up and fulfill his promise to increase funding to the festival. There is still no firm commitment.

The petition states, “We, the undersigned, call upon the City of Toronto, the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to provide the Toronto Caribbean Carnival with the financial support it deserves, in recognition of its cultural, economic and social impact.”  The petition outlines the significance of this festival to Canada. It notes, “For over 50 years (since 1967, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival has been a key cultural event in the city and country, attracting millions of visitors and contributing significantly to the Canadian economy. This festival not only celebrates the heritage and creativity of Caribbean people, it also celebrates what is uniquely Canadian by fostering inclusivity, cultural diversity, and economic opportunities for: small businesses, entrepreneurs, and families.”

The petition requests three things:

  • Immediate Emergency Funding of two million to cover the operational costs from the 2024 Carnival. Despite the incredible efforts of the executive team to reduce costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024, the carnival still faces a financial shortfall. The Carnival costs over three million to produce annually yet receives less than one million from the three levels of government.
  • Annual Funding of $1.5 million from the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to support the core operations of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, ensuring its sustainability and continued growth as a National Cultural Institution.
  • Funding for a Cultural Centre dedicated to preserving and promoting the Caribbean heritage in Toronto. This center would serve as a hub for education, cultural programming, and community events year-round, benefiting both the diaspora and the wider Canadian community.

The petition lists five reasons why it is important to sign the petition:

Economic Impact:

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival generates over $400 million annually for the Ontario economy, supporting thousands of jobs and hundreds of small businesses. The majority of these businesses are: Black, Brown, or Caribbean owned, making this event vital to the economic well-being of racialized communities.

Tourism and Visibility:

The Carnival brings in over two million visitors each year, making it the largest cultural event in Canada. With government support, we can elevate the Carnival’s international standing and attract even more visitors.

Representation and Inclusion:

Carnival is more than just a celebration. It stems from our emancipation and freedom from slavery and indentureship. It’s a powerful symbol of what our community can achieve. The event offers a platform to showcase Caribbean culture, while also standing as a beacon of inclusion, diversity, and respect. Government funding is not just financial support – it’s an acknowledgement of the value and contribution of Caribbean culture in Canada.

Financial Prudence:

Over the past two years, the executive team has demonstrated extraordinary financial responsibility, reducing the festival’s costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024. This frugality highlights the sacrifices made by the team and community, showcasing that the Carnival has done something extraordinary with the limited resources it receives.

Cultural Legacy:

We are asking for support not just for an event, but for an ecosystem of creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation. The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is a lifeline for many who depend on its success.

The petition concludes by noting why it is important that it be signed. “You are helping ensure that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival continues to thrive, benefiting not only the local community, but all of Canada. Let’s make sure that future generations continue to experience the: magic, culture, and impact of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival.”

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Children are not Democrats, or Republicans; they are kids, and their well-being must be our focus

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

In a world where trust in governance is waning, it’s refreshing to see individuals who genuinely care about the well-being of their communities. While many politicians make empty promises and cater to the elite, there are those who are committed to making a real difference in people’s lives. Today, we’ll delve into the story of a man who is determined to improve the health of his nation, even as a new administration takes the reins.

On April 19th, 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took leave from Children’s Health Defense (CHD) to run for president as a Democrat. About six months later, he switched gears to run as an independent. Then, on August 23rd, 2024 of this year, Kennedy, the longtime Democrat, suspended his campaign — and in a move that perhaps even he didn’t see coming — he endorsed former President Donald Trump.

Through it all, Kennedy remained true to his commitment: to end the chronic disease epidemic. He never wavered. For perhaps the first time in history, Kennedy gave children a voice in a national election. He reminded everyone that children are not Democrats, or Republicans. They’re kids. They’re “Swimming around in a toxic soup, and they need our help.”

RFK’s family have been harshly critical of him and view his switch over to the Republicans as a betrayal, including when he shared the unfounded claim that COVID-19 was “Ethnically targeted.” “Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment,” shared Rory Kennedy (the youngest of RFK Sr. and Ethel Kennedy’s 11 children) in a statement when RFK Jr. announced his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate.

Despite familial differences of opinion, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s resolute dedication to public health remains steadfast. His tireless efforts are centered on safeguarding the health of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens: our children.

With Trump’s support, Kennedy and his team launched the Make America Healthy Again campaign, where he vowed to do whatever it takes to get toxic chemicals out of our: food, our soil, our water and our air. He has also promised to take on the: FDA, CDC, HHS, NIH, NIAID, USDA, EPA, FCC — and any other federal agency that puts corporate profits ahead of public health.

Perhaps most importantly, Kennedy promised to get to the bottom of why 1 in 33 children in this country has autism. During the election, a member of Trump’s transition team — said that one of his first jobs, if Trump were elected, would be to gain access to the CDC’s vaccine safety data so his team can analyze it to determine if vaccines are as safe as the FDA and CDC say they are.

As we witness his efforts unfold, we can only hope that his actions will align with his words.

REFERENCES:

https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-trump-vaccines-779495533a80ba142086a9621d75a59c

https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/trump-harris-election-day-results-2024/card/u-s-food-industry-frets-over-trump-s-rfk-jr-embrace-VJx6J2SQ4w7qZz2xXHZN

https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-has-plan-make-americas-children-healthy-again-its-good-one-opinion-1957026

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4968959-rfk-jr-trump-white-house/

https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender_category/agency-capture/

With RFK Jr. Poised to Assume Key Role in Public Health, Kids Could Finally Have an Ally in Washington

[Home] Home 2023

RFK Jr. Launches Presidential Campaign, Vows to Reduce Chronic Disease in Children

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Breaking: RFK Jr. Suspends Presidential Campaign, Will Join Forces With Trump to ‘Save Millions of Children’

 

 

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