Henry Winkler and Susan Lucci Among National Stroke Association's Inaugural RAISE Awards Winners
Monday, October 31, 2011
By: Taryn Fort

Program Recognizes Unique and Effective Stroke Awareness Community Activities

National Stroke Association honored winners in five categories at the inaugural Raising Awareness In Stroke Excellence (RAISE) Awards on Friday, October 28, 2011. The event took place at the Museum of Nature and Science in Denver, CO. This national award program recognizes individuals and groups in multiple categories for taking stroke awareness activities to new heights.

2011 winners include Henry Winkler (Media Spokesperson; “Open Arms: Raising Awareness of Upper Limb Spasticity“); Susan Lucci (Media Spokesperson; “Facing AFib, Get Serious About Stroke™”; University of Mississippi Health Care Multidisciplinary Stroke Team (Outstanding Group); Value Health Partners (Most Creative); Tom Watson (Outstanding Individual); The Aphasia Literacy Group (Most Impactful). View photos of the event.  

“There is no doubt that raising stroke awareness is one of the most important ways to make an impact on stroke no matter the reach or type of effort being made. By supporting the many stroke champions already raising awareness across the country in unique and effective ways, the RAISE Awards helps to establish a devoted and organized community engaged in stroke awareness for the long term,” said Jim Baranski, CEO of National Stroke Association.

“Many people in the United States are unable to identify stroke risk factors or stroke warning signs. This is alarming because stroke is already a leading cause of death and we know incidence will likely rise,” said Baranski. “The boomers are aging and a recent study shows increased incidence among children and young adults. It’s possible that by adopting better lifestyle habits and educating about warning signs, we could impact so many.”

Henry Winkler, legendary “Happy Days” star and RAISE Award Winner in the Media Spokesperson category, was on hand to share his personal story about his mother’s struggle with upper limb spasticity, as well as present and receive awards. Former CBS Weatherman and stroke survivor, Mark McEwen, emceed the event.

Award winners are recognized through various advertising channels, including StrokeSmart™ magazine, www.stroke.org and email and social media promotion. They also receive a website seal indicating their winning category to help drive interest.

“We want to help these individuals and groups stay motivated about raising awareness all year long,” said Baranski. “Their efforts deserve to be known so others can be inspired to do the same.”

About National Stroke Association

National Stroke Association is the only national organization in the U.S. that focuses 100 percent of its efforts on stroke by developing compelling education and programs focused on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and support for all impacted by stroke. Its mission is to reduce the incidence and impact of stroke.