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July newsletter

By Stroke Aotearoa

Welcome to the July edition of your monthly Stroke Aotearoa newsletter! If you haven't already, Sign up for our newsletter

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In this issue...

You'll discover a refresher on F.A.S.T. — what it stands for, why it matters, and hear from people who acted F.A.S.T. and saved a life.

What is F.A.S.T.?

F.A.S.T. is a really simple way to remember the signs of stroke. It stands for:

  • Face drooping
  • Arm weakness
  • Speech difficulties
  • Take action - call 111

If you experience one of these signs or notice someone else is experiencing one of these signs, don’t wait or think “it’ll pass”. And don’t wait for another sign to become evident. Taking action quickly is vital and could save your life or theirs.

Why is it so important to Take Action - call 111?

It is vital to recognise when someone is having a stroke and get medical attention as soon as possible. The sooner medical treatment begins, the lower the risk that permanent brain damage occurs and there is a better chance of an excellent recovery. In some cases, it means that damage can be completely reversed. 

Calling 111 is the best way to get medical attention: it means that an ambulance will be sent to help, and the first responders can assess the situation and prime the hospital to prepare for the patient’s arrival. This helps ensure they are triaged appropriately and receive treatment quickly.

Johnny's and Lizzie's story

The Kerikeri couple were living their normal, everyday lives - when out of nowhere, the unexpected happened.

Johnny and Lizzie

Free F.A.S.T. Training

Designed to upskill you about stroke, the key warning signs, and how to share the F.A.S.T. message and raise awareness.

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Regions ll Survey

We're supporting the University of Otago's research project to reduce ethnic and geographic inequities in New Zealand stroke care.

Complete our two-minute, anonymous survey below.

Where there's a Will, there's a way!

It's the perfect time to make sure your wishes are known, your loved ones are protected, and your legacy lives on. 

More than half of New Zealanders sadly don’t have a Will, yet it could be the greatest gift they can leave their loved ones in a time of grief and uncertainty.

Wills also help charities plan for the future as they create a better future for those they serve. 

Including a gift in your Will to Stroke Aotearoa is a powerful way to support stroke survivors, their whānau, and future generations. 

Even a small gift can make a lasting difference and the process is easy.

Click here to create your Will for FREE.

A word of thanks

Our team are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the following Trusts and Foundations. Thank you for helping us save lives.

March

March

Advanced Ashburton Community Foundation
Roy Owen Dixey Charitable Trust
Four Winds Foundation

April

April

Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust 
Trust Tairawhiti 
Higgins Bequest Trust
PA Blackmore 
Esme and Tom Tombleson Charitable Trust
Stewart Family Trust
WN Pharazyn Trust
Oxford Sports Trust

May

May

The Trusts Community Foundation
Royston Health Trust
AD Hally Estate
David Ellison Charitable Trust
GA Waddel Charitable Trust
Christchurch Casino Charitable Trust
Central Lakes Trust
We Care Community Trust
Southland Care and Welfare Trust
F H Muter Trust
E M Pharazyn Trust
Phillip Verry Charitable Trust
Dragon Community Trust

June

June

WEL Energy Trust
South Canterbury Trust 
Estate of Gordon Lindsay Isaacs
Kingdom Foundation
Central Lakes Trust
Mainland Foundation
The Molly Fulton Family Fund

Noho ora mai, stay well

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Jess Winchester

General Manager Marketing and Fundraising l Stroke Aotearoa New Zealand