New 'Stroke Park' at Britomart
Friday 10 September 2010, 7:42AM
By Radius Residential Care
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A ‘Stroke Park’ art exhibition in Auckland’s busy Britomart railway station is helping generate a wider awareness of stroke and how best to respond in times of emergency.
The eye catching display consists of three life size mannequins each affected by stroke in a park-like setting and highlights the importance of early detection and symptoms associated with stroke.
Local artist Mandalina Stanisich created the quirky exhibition with the help of Radius Care rest homes and other like-minded sponsors in-conjunction with the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand’s Stroke Awareness Week 6 – 12th September.
“Stroke is the one of the biggest killers in New Zealand after heart disease and cancer and this exhibition aims to heighten awareness of stroke as well as educate people how best to react in times of emergency,” says Mandalina who has had family affected by stroke.
The key message of the exhibition is to act fast and get immediate medical treatment if you or anyone you know should show symptoms of stroke. Symptoms typically include one side of the face drooping, one side of the body being weak or having difficulty speaking with slurred speech.
Recent surveys conducted by the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand have shown that many people do not correctly identify signs of stroke and subsequent delayed medical response can have tragic consequences. Fast medical attention can often mean significantly improved outcomes for victims of stroke and can also reduce the need for ongoing care.
An estimated 45,000 stroke survivors require ongoing health care after suffering a stroke and approximately 2000 people die from stroke each year. Stroke victims are also one of the highest consumers of hospital beds, rest home care and community support services.
“Stroke affects thousands of people every day and Radius Care is proud to support this very worthwhile exhibition that seeks to help people recognise the signs of stroke and to get immediate help”, says Radius Care CEO Brien Cree, leading sponsor of the ‘Stroke Park’ exhibition.
ENDS