Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death, killing more than 140,000 people each year, and the foremost cause of disability in the United States. South Georgia Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Services will host its annual stroke symposium, an educational lunch and learn, to spotlight stroke prevention and offer support for stroke survivors, caregivers and family members. The event is free to the public and scheduled for Wed., May 8 from 10am to 2pm at the James H. Rainwater Conference Center in Valdosta. Registration is required by calling 229.259.4290

SGMC’s Code Stroke Medical Director and Neurologist Brian Dawson, MD will present along with representatives from SGMC’s Rehabilitation Therapy department. Community healthcare vendors will also be available to provide additional resources to guests.

According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts (or ruptures). When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen) it needs, so it and brain cells die.