The Neuro team at Culicchia Neurological Clinic has been busy promoting stroke awareness in May, national Brain Cancer Awareness Month.
Neurologist Michael Puente addressed a community group about stroke and its symptoms. He emphasized how important it is to know what a stroke feels like, using the acronym F.A.S.T.
Balanced – sudden loss of balance or coordination
Eyes -sudden persistent blurred or double vision, or other vision trouble
Face – sudden numbness or weakness in the face for an uneven smile
Arm – sudden numbness or weakness in arm or leg, usually on one side of the body
Speech – difficulty speaking or understanding
Time = Brain. If these symptoms occur suddenly, or are accompanied by sudden, severe dizziness or the worst headache of your life, call 911.
The Culicchia Clinic was a proud sponsor of West Jefferson Medical Center’s stroke health fair, where Culicchia Clinic ultrasound technicians performed free carotid artery screenings to detect one’s stroke risk. Neurologist Steven Atkins appeared on New Orleans WDSU TV to reiterate the symptoms of stroke.
The Culicchia Clinic also sponsored Brain Support Nola‘s Aces Against Aneurysms Ladies’ Tennis Tournament. Over 80 players turned out for the tournament on May 1. Mandeville Mayor Donald Villere came and presented Rebecca Winchell and the tennis committee with certificates of appreciation.
Brain Aneurysm survivor Rebecca Winchell of Mandeville founded the tournament to raise awareness and educate patients and families recovering from brain aneurysms. She started Brain Support NOLA, which just months ago established the Robert C. Dawson Aneurysm Lectureship Fund at LSU Health Department of Neurosurgery to sponsor visiting lectures on aneurysm research and treatment. This year’s tournament raised close to $15,000.
