DEAR EDITOR:

Every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. has a stroke. In fact, stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update, and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States. Unfortunately, a stroke can happen to anyone, at any age.

That’s why this May, for American Stroke Month, the American Stroke Association is spotlighting four things you can do to take action against stroke:

1. Learn B.E. F.A.S.T. to spot a stroke. If you see sudden Balance loss, Eye or vision changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness or Speech difficulty, it’s time to call 911. Explore the signs by playing the B.E. F.A.S.T. Experience at Stroke.org/StrokeMonth.

2. Understand your stroke risk and explore ways to lower it. Identifying personal risk factors — especially high blood pressure, the leading risk factor for stroke — can help you have informed conversations with your health care team about stroke prevention and long term brain health.

3. Find support after a stroke. Recovery is a journey and connection matters. Explore support services for survivors and care partners, including virtual Stroke Meetups, and sign up for the Stroke Connection e newsletter at Stroke.org/StrokeMonth.

4. Join us at the Northeast Ohio Golf Classic. On Monday, June 1, we’re taking swings at stroke by raising funds and lifesaving awareness for better heart and brain health for all. Register your foursome today at heart.org/neohiogolf.

One day, we hope for a world where stroke is no longer the No. 4 killer in our community. Until then, we keep fighting. One course, one cause and countless lives impacted.

JOSEPH SALMAN, JR.

Chairman,

Northeast Ohio Golf Classic

VP, Manager of Card Services,

First National Bank

Hermitage, Pa.