World Stroke Day Forum Held At BUEI
The Bermuda Stroke Association [BSA] brought together more than 80 people for its World Stroke Day Forum at BUEI.
A spokesperson said, “On October 29th, the Bermuda Stroke Association brought together more than 80 people at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute [BUEI] for the World Stroke Day Forum. Despite heavy rainfall, the crowd’s spirit was undampened as community members, healthcare professionals, and stroke survivors joined a powerful gathering focused on awareness, support, and recovery.
“The BUEI foyer was filled with local charities and organisations: Vision Bermuda, Age Concern, Dementia Bermuda, Bermuda Diabetes Association, WindReach, Bermuda Red Cross, Lighthouse Medical Supplies, and Medical House, which shared valuable resources with attendees. Their collaborative presence underscored the strength of Bermuda’s care network.
“The forum refreshments would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship of Discovery Wines and Allshores.
“One of the evening’s most moving moments came when stroke survivors and caregivers took the stage to share their stories. Their accounts, marked by honesty and hope, reminded everyone that recovery is a journey that requires both patience and perseverance. Their message was clear: you are not alone. Support is available, not just from organisations, but from a caring community.
“A panel of dedicated healthcare professionals tackled important topics including rehabilitation, hidden challenges after stroke, the importance of working together, and the next steps for recovery. The panel was moderated and featured experts including Monica Kurz [SLT], Nicole Chichon-Desilva [Co-Chair of BSA and survivor], Natasia Symonds [PT], Kayla Grant [OT and Allshores wellness coordinator], Dr Meadipudi [Stroke Medical Director], Kayla Stowe [RN, Stroke Program Coordinator], Dr Samantha Scott O’Bannon [Neuropsychologist, Mindset], and Sara Bosch de Noya [Dietitian, Bermuda Diabetes Association].
“A key takeaway was the BE FAST acronym: Balance, Eyes, Face, Arm, Speech, Time. Recognising these signs and acting quickly can save lives and improve outcomes. The evening offered both reassurance and empowerment to everyone who attended.
“Behind every statistic [230 incidences of stroke last year] lies a story, a family, and a life changed. This forum created a safe space for those stories to be heard, and for our community to recommit to bridging the gap in stroke care and support.
“Special thanks go to MC Jon Beard; speakers Nicole Chichon-Desilva, Gershon Gibbons, Clay Smith, Rosemarie Pedro, Oscar Lightbourne, Mark Berry, Dr Sam Scott O’Bannon, and Keith DeSilva; and photographer Jeshmi Pradhan [Moments by Jeshmi Pradhan] for capturing the spirit of the evening.
“Let us continue to raise awareness, build support, and work together to improve the lives of stroke survivors and their caregivers throughout Bermuda. This event marked the first time so many from across Bermuda’s stroke community the survivors, caregivers, professionals, and supporters all gathered under one roof. It was more than a forum; it was a milestone that forged new connections, opened dialogue, and set the stage for ongoing collaboration.
“The unity and commitment shown this evening will lay the foundation for future progress, ensuring that no one affected by stroke walks their journey alone.”
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