News Release
7th Annual Stroke Garden Party Reunites Survivors, Families and Caregivers
CHATHAM-KENT -- Dozens of former stroke patients are expected to attend the 7th Annual Rehabilitation and Continuing Care Program Stroke Garden Party at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Friday, June 25, 2010 from 1 – 3:30 pm. As guests share their personal stories of struggle and triumph with each other, they will enjoy displays, entertainment, prizes and refreshments at the tented, riverfront venue.
“The theme of this year’s event is “Hope Floats” and offers an opportunity for individuals to celebrate the mix of resources, people, feelings, sights and sounds that create their hope,” said Program Director, Rehab & Continuing Care, Nancy Snobelen. “Each year we experience an overwhelming response from survivors who are excited to re-connect with former friends, caregivers, other stroke survivors, staff and physicians at this celebration”, she adds.
This year, the committee is thrilled to be hosting Jessie Steinberg, an interactive Drum and Percussion Circle Facilitator as the musical entertainment. “Rhythm lives in each of us and connects us to one another. Drum circles can assist all of us to achieve greater personal potential, shared joy and interdependency,” said Nancy Snobelen.
The Stroke Garden Party is hosted by the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance in partnership with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario Mission Committee and is free of charge. Any person who has had a stroke is invited to attend with their family. Guests are to RSVP by calling 519-352-6401 ext. 6996 with their name, address and telephone number.
CKHA’s Rehabilitation, Complex Continuing Care and Chronic Disease Management Program hosts a 4-bed, acute care Integrated Stroke Unit; a 21-bed designated inpatient Rehabilitation unit; 5-bed Family Medicine Unit and 65 Complex Continuing Care beds including 9 designated End-of-Life care beds that provide Rehabilitation, Complex Continuing Care and Chronic Disease Management services for all of Chatham-Kent.
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance is one of six provincially designated Southwestern Ontario District Stroke Centres. The District Stroke Centre and the Stroke Secondary Prevention Clinic co-ordinate stroke care – from prevention and education through acute treatment, rehabilitation and after-hospital support from community agencies.
Media contact:
Nancy Snobelen, Program Director
Rehabilitation,Complex Continuing Care and Chronic Disease Management Program
519-352-6401 ext. 6079
For more information about heart disease, stroke or healthy lifestyle,
visit www.heartandstroke.ca