Affinity Health System, ThedaCare, Neuroscience Group and Gold Cross Ambulance Service are teaming together with the Timber Rattlers to ensure a summer of safety for the Fox Cities. Two upcoming events will pair heart and brain health and the summer fun of baseball and farmer’s markets.
The first, Strike Out Stroke, will take place on Saturday, June 27 from 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at the Appleton Farmers Market in Houdini Plaza. Attendees can tour the 12-foot high MEGA Brain to learn about different brain issues, including stroke, receive free blood pressure screenings and register to win one of ten peripheral vascular screenings. Timber Rattlers players and mascot Fang will be also be in attendance before heading to the second part of the event, beginning at 5 p.m. at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. The MEGA Brain will again be available for attendees to explore, ThedaStar will land on the field and stroke survivors will be recognized during the game. The evening will conclude with post-game fireworks.
“Stroke is the third 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 and the medical director of the Stroke Center at Theda Clark Medical Center. “There are several telltale symptoms and warning signs, and stroke can be treated if detection and treatment happen quickly. Strike Out Stroke is an excellent opportunity for people of all ages to learn this life-saving skill.”
The second event, CPR in the Park, will take place on Monday, June 29 at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium. From 4:30-6:30 p.m., attendees can have their blood pressure checked, view a photo gallery of heart attack survivors, take a peek inside of ThedaStar, learn hands-only CPR and tour the inside of a giant inflated heart. Guests are invited to attend the Timber Rattlers game at 7:05 p.m., with the first 1,000 fans receiving an Aramis Ramirez bobblehead.
“Community partnerships are a part of what makes the Fox Cities special, and this community partnership is one that can save the lives of our family, friends and neighbors,” said Annie Bongiorno, director, Fox Cities American Heart Association. “By raising awareness and support in our region, we hope to enhance the lives of everyone who attends these events and create a ripple effect in the community.”
To purchase tickets for either of the events, call the Timber Rattler’s box office at (920)733-4152 or purchase them online at the team’s website. For more information, contact Annie Bongiorno at (920) 265-8578 or via email at Annie.Bongiorno@heart.org.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest, largest voluntary organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Founded by six cardiologists in 1924, the organization now includes more than 22.5 million volunteers and supporters working tirelessly to eliminate these diseases. The American Heart Association funds innovative research, fights for stronger public health policies and provides lifesaving tools and information to save and improve lives.
