The mum of a Perth teenager who has experienced two major strokes wants West Australians to know that they can happen to anyone, at any time.
Elisha Adams had just finished his year 11 exams when he had his first stroke. He was at home when he had his second stroke, just two years later.
Elisha was born with vascular malformations of the brain which puts him at risk of further strokes. But his condition has not slowed him down.
“Despite his first stroke at 16 and a 99 day stay in hospital, Elisha went on to finish year 12 which was a really exciting milestone,” Tara, Elisha’s mum said.
“Now Elisha volunteers his time at the Acquired Brain Injury ward at Fiona Stanley Hospital. He is passionate about music and loves the Marvel universe.”‘
Tara is on a mission to make more people aware of stroke by participating in Stroke Foundation’s major annual fundraiser, Stride4Stroke.
The event sees participants set an activity goal to increase their daily ‘moving minutes’. They can choose any activity to complete within the month, from walking, running, swimming, cycling, an exercise class or a goal in stroke rehabilitation. The options are endless.
“I’m increasing my moving minutes by walking every day. I want to use this opportunity to make people aware of stroke and how important it is to learn the F.A.S.T. message,” she said.
“We’re very fortunate to know that Elisha was at risk of stroke, he has always received medical attention quickly, but we know that’s not the case for everyone.”
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy thanked Tara for her fundraising efforts and urged all West Australians to follow in her footsteps by signing up to Stride4Stroke and making their moves count this November.
“We know that 80 per cent of strokes are preventable, and taking steps to adopt a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk,” Dr Murphy said.
“Stride4Stroke is a great starting point to make the changes that can reduce your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes which are all modifiable risk factors of stroke.”
