Rehabilitation Services

Newspaper Column

Are you a stroke survivor? Or a family member or caregiver of a stroke survivor? If so, did you know that HSC Medical Center sponsors a Stroke Support Group?

Since last March, HSCMC Stroke Support Group has been meeting once a month, on the second Tuesday of each month, in the rehab department dining room at HSC Medical Center. The meetings, from 1:00-2:00 p.m., are open to stroke survivors and their family, friends, and caregivers.

Wendy Kitkoski, OTR, an occupational therapist with HSC Home Care, serves as facilitator to provide direction during the meetings. Support group participants select the topics for discussion such as nutrition, exercise, home modifications, vision and speech problems, emotional issues, family dynamics, and community resources. Frequently, guest speakers are invited to speak to the group on areas of interest identified by the group.

According to the National Stroke Association, stroke support groups should provide a forum for people to share their experiences in an atmosphere of understanding and encouragement. HSCMC support group members are encouraged to share their stories of difficulties and successes. Kitkoski says that the meetings and the programs are designed to educate and inform the stroke survivor, family member, and caregiver while preserving the dignity of the stroke survivor in a warm, caring environment.

If you are a stroke survivor, or a family member or caregiver of a stroke survivor, and would like more information about the support group, you may contact Kitkoski at 501-337-4663. Attendance is open, so feel free to attend the next scheduled meeting on Tuesday, October 11, at 1 p.m. in the HSCMC Rehab Dining Room.

Ann Gasper is the Marketing Coordinator for HSC Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Program, which is located on the first floor of HSC Medical Center.