In honor of World Stroke Day, which falls on the 29th of October, the Singapore National Stroke Association (SNSA) took the initiative to organize the Stepping Out for Stroke (SOFS) 2023 event, in partnership with the Angels Initiative at Boehringer Ingelheim. The event, which unfolded this morning at Our Tampines Hub, was dedicated to raising awareness about stroke and extending support to stroke survivors and their caregivers.
The walkathon commenced with the flag-off by Guest-of-Honor, Mr. Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Social and Family Development and the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth. The event witnessed a substantial turnout, with over 600 participants in attendance. SOFS 2023 aimed to unite stroke survivors, dedicated caregivers, supporters, and community members, fostering camaraderie that plays a crucial role in aiding stroke survivors on their journey to recovery.
The event reintroduced the FAST Heroes, building upon the success of the previous year. The FAST Heroes initiative leverages the natural curiosity of young children to instill knowledge about stroke and the importance of timely response. A new addition to the FAST Heroes cast was unveiled – Tanya, the teacher. The FAST Heroes 995 program, now featuring five FAST Heroes, employs interactive activities to educate children aged five to nine about stroke. This educational initiative empowers both children and their families with the knowledge to recognize stroke symptoms promptly, emphasizing the crucial role of timely intervention in preventing disability and fatalities.
The FAST Heroes 995 program was launched in July 2022 as a school-based initiative developed by the Department of Education and Social Policy at the University of Macedonia. It was made possible with the support of the Angels Initiative. In Singapore, the Angels Initiative partnered with SNSA to introduce the program in schools across the nation. Thus far, it has reached over 84 schools, enrolling more than 6,000 children into the FAST Heroes program.
The addition of Tanya the Teacher to the FAST Heroes team is a significant step towards strengthening the program’s impact, as she will guide individuals on becoming supportive advocates and spreading awareness about stroke symptoms and their timely recognition.
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