Affinity Health System, ThedaCare, Neuroscience Group, American Heart Association and Gold Cross Ambulance Service are teaming together again this summer with the Timber Rattlers for the 3rd Annual Strike Out Stroke event to increase the health and safety of residents in the Fox Cities. A special one-day event sporting a Harry Potter theme will pair brain health and the summer fun of the farmer’s market and baseball.
Spot a Stroke, Act Fast, Call 911 begins at the Appleton Farmer’s Market on Saturday, June 25 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Houdini Plaza. Attendees will learn how to identify the signs and symptoms of stroke and get help downloading and using stroke smart device applications that help facilitate fast action and good communication with “911”. “When it comes to a stroke, every second counts. Nearly 2 million brain cells die each minute a stroke goes untreated. Rapid access to medical treatment often makes the difference between full recovery and permanent disability” according to the American Heart Association (2016). Participants downloading the application are eligible to register to win an iPad. The event includes games, prizes and balloons for the kids and opportunities for “selfies” with Timber Rattler players and Fang.
The second part of the event will begin at 5 p.m. at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium for the Harry Potter theme baseball game. Pre- game, attendees are invited to visit the Harry Potter experience to download the smart device stroke application, tour the Theda Star Helicopter, have photos taken with Fang, play games and receive complimentary Harry Potter giveaways. Free blood pressure screenings are available at both morning and game-time events. Fang will deliver the game ball by helicopter and area stroke survivors will share their stories at the game. The evening will conclude with post-game fireworks.
“Stroke is the 4th leading cause of death in the United States, with more than 140,000 people dying each year,” said Thomas G. Mattio, MD, a stroke specialist at the Neuroscience Group. “There are several telltale symptoms and warning signs, and stroke can be treated if detection and treatment happen quickly. “Spot a Stroke, Act Fast, Call 911 is an excellent opportunity for people of all ages to learn the signs and symptoms of a stroke and get help fast by calling 911”.
The Farmer’s Market activities are free to the public. To purchase tickets to the Harry Potter Theme Timber Rattler’s game call the Timber Rattler’s box office at (920)733-4152 or purchase tickets online at the team’s website.
