Umbrella Walkathon – Chennaionline

In observance of World Stroke Day, MGM Healthcare organised a 3-kilometer umbrella walkathon titled ‘Stride for Stroke’, commencing from the hospital premises to raise awareness about the importance of timely medical intervention. More than 400 people, mainly stroke survivors and people who had been prevented from developing strokes, participated in the walkathon. The event was flagged off by actress Ramya Subramanian in the presence of Dr. Roopesh Kumar, Director of Neurosurgery, Dr. Vasudevan, Clinical Lead & Senior Consultant, Dr. Srivarthan, Consultant Neurologist, and Dr. Aarthi Deepesh, Clinical lead of Interventional Radiology, MGM Healthcare. A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when brain cells begin to die due to an inadequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted. It affects an individual’s movement, speech, vision, memory, and ability to perform day-to-day activities. Since brain tissue begins to die within minutes, stroke management is extremely time sensitive. According to the World Stroke Organization, one in four people is at risk of stroke in their lifetime, and over 12 million people experience a stroke each year globally. It is one of the major causes of death and long-term disability. That’s why World Stroke Day is observed annually on October 29 across the globe to raise awareness about stroke prevention, early recognition of its symptoms, and the importance of timely medical intervention. This year, the campaign focuses on ‘Every M1nute Counts’, with the call to ‘#ActFast’, highlighting the importance of recognising the symptoms quickly. The sooner treatment begins, the greater the possibility of recovery. At MGM Healthcare, World Stroke Day is observed with an umbrella walkathon in which people raise their umbrellas to raise stroke awareness. Through the walkathon, the hospital management aims to raise awareness about the golden time for stroke management, as more than 90% of stroke patients reach the hospital beyond the golden four-and-a-half-hour period, slowing down the treatment and recovery process. Some of the common stroke symptoms include facial deviation, arm drift, and speech difficulties. In his comments, Dr. Roopesh Kumar said, “Stroke is more like a race against time, where every second can make a huge difference between recovery and lifelong disability. The sooner a stroke is recognised and treated, the higher the chances of minimising brain damage and preventing long-term disability. It is important to be aware of stroke warning signs, such as sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, or sudden loss of balance. It is also equally important to understand that conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can significantly increase the risk of stroke. People should make lifestyle modifications and undergo regular health check-ups to prevent stroke.” In his comments, Mr. Pathmanaban, Chief Executive Officer said, “As healthcare professionals, we understand that behind every stroke is a life, a family, and a future that deserves every possible chance. This World Stroke Day, let us come together to raise awareness, encourage preventive healthcare, recognise symptoms early, and ensure that no time is lost in seeking medical attention. Remember, when it comes to stroke, every second matters, every action counts, and acting fast can save a life.”