On March 8, Rochester Regional Health (RRH) hosted more than 20 area Girl Scouts at Rochester General Hospital (RGH). The scouts, ages 9 to 13 were the first to earn the newly minted RRH Stroke Superstar Fun Patch by learning how to recognize the signs of stroke and how to respond quickly by activating Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
In the United States, someone suffers a stroke every 40 seconds. Since 1990, incidences of stroke in people ages 49 and under has steadily increased. Healthcare workers note that children are often present when a caregiver experiences a stroke, making it essential for all ages to recognize the signs, stay calm, and engage EMS quickly.
The event featured comprehensive stroke education by RRH experts followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of RGH including state-of-the-art imaging technology and laboratory areas. The girls took selfies with Moxi, RGH’s medical delivery robot and concluded the morning on the helipad with a special visit from one of Mercy Flight Central’s medical transport helicopters.
“We are thrilled to have partnered with the Girl Scouts of Western New York to educate our young community members about the critical importance of stroke recognition” said Tammy Snyder, President of Rochester General Hospital and Chief Operating Officer “We know that, especially when it comes to stroke treatment, every second counts. We are empowering this next generation with the knowledge and tools to act quickly and confidently in an emergency should the need arise.”
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