20 years fighting stroke
The Stroke Foundation is bringing together the stroke community at an event in Melbourne today to acknowledge 20 years of fighting stroke.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said there was much to be proud of – over the past two decades, there had been significant advancements in the prevention of stroke, its treatment and care.
“With the support of the community, the Stroke Foundation has increased public awareness of stroke, championed research and access to innovative treatments, and provided support for thousands of stroke survivors and their families,’’ Ms McGowan said.
“This year alone in Australia there will be more 50,000 strokes – one every 10 minutes. It is estimated there are more than 450,000 people living with stroke in our community.
“Although the number of strokes is increasing, the advances in treatment over the past 20 years means that more people are surviving. Stroke is no longer a death sentence but for many survivors, they face a long and challenging journey of recovery.
“We have come a long way in the last two decades and we couldn’t have done it without the generous support of the Australian community.”
Speaking at the event, Ms McGowan said there was still so much to be done.
“Too many Australians continue to be impacted by this insidious disease, it doesn’t have to be this way,’’ she said.
“We need the continued support of the community to Prevent, Treat and Beat Stroke. Together we can fight stroke and win.”
Stroke Foundation revealed its new brand as part of the celebration, a new look to take the organisation forward.
“Stroke is now a top 10 health issue but many people still don’t associate stroke with the brain,’’ Ms McGowan said.
“Nor do they instantly recognise the Stroke Foundation.
“Over the last 20 years we have focus on building recognition for stroke and establishing the Stroke Foundation as the voice of stroke – it is time for us to become the face of stroke as well.”
The new look visual identity was the result of months of consultation with the general public and stroke community. It reflects the Stroke Foundation’s mission to prevent, treat and beat stroke – through research and innovative treatments, public awareness and support for stroke survivors. Stroke Foundation worked with Marmalade Melbourne to establish the new look.