Raising heroes in healthcare

OWING to the success of last year’s FAST Heroes pilot campaign in the Eastern and Western Capes, the award-winning health programme is inviting primary schools nationwide to sign up to help save lives.

The initiative aims to educate pupils aged five to nine to recognise the symptoms of a stroke and to understand the importance of immediate action such as calling an ambulance.

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Supported by the World Stroke Organisation, the five-week programme facilitated by teachers involves weekly activities and reinforcement designed to captivate young minds.

“Statistics show that stroke is a serious concern in South Africa and globally, ranking as the second leading cause of death, and the third leading cause of disability worldwide.

“Unfortunately, many stroke victims don’t receive timely medical care owing to a lack of awareness about the key signs.

“Children hold the power to change this by educating their families,” emphasises Prof Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa.

Pupils are encouraged to become ‘superheroes’ in their families, especially helping grandparents.

Renathe van der Merwe, the national co-ordinator for FAST Heroes says, “With global stroke figures on the rise, recognising symptoms and knowing how to respond are vital life skills.

“Children serve as exceptional messengers for disseminating this crucial message to adults around them. I extend a challenge to schools to join forces; together we can make a transformative difference and save lives, one grandparent at a time.”

The impactful initiative is spearheaded by a cast of animated characters, including retired superhero grandparents and their grandchildren, Timmy and Tanya.

Children are taught to become adept at identifying three key signs of a stroke: facial drooping, arm weakness, and speech impairment, hence the campaign acronym ‘FAST’.

“Being part of the FAST Heroes campaign has been a rewarding experience. Witnessing the enthusiasm and dedication of our young learners as they become agents of change is truly inspiring,” said Nina Ras from Brackenfell Primary School in the Western Cape, who was a finalist for the Teacher’s Award.

To learn more about the campaign or to register, visit www.fastheroes.com

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