LAKEPORT, Calif. – Ruth Lincoln, clinical nurse and staff educator at Sutter Lakeside Hospital, announces a Stroke Support Group kickoff meeting scheduled from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 24.

The meeting will take place in the Hospital Conference Room at Sutter Lakeside Hospital. Community members are welcome and the meeting is free of charge.

The California HealthCare Foundation, which publishes California Healthline, reported in January of 2012 that Lake County residents have the second highest rates statewide of a stroke prevention procedure called carotid endarterectomy.  

Because of the prevalence of strokes in Lake County, Sutter Lakeside Hospital decided to create a support group for stroke survivors and their families and friends.

The first meeting, scheduled to take place on Sept. 24, will provide an opportunity for community members affected by stroke to meet and share stroke recovery information.

“Almost everyone is touched by family and friends who have experienced stroke, and I know firsthand the importance of connecting with available resources and services,” said Lincoln. “We would like to create a safe place for stroke survivors and their loved ones to share the information that they’ve learned as well as their experiences.”

Chief Nursing Executive Teresa Campbell added, “Sutter Lakeside Hospital is committed to making sure that our patients and their families have access to the tools that they need to recover from strokes. Studies have shown that the supportive environment of a peer group can go a long way towards improving a patient’s quality of life. We’re excited to offer this group to the public and look forward to getting to know how we can support Lake County residents and families who have been affected by strokes.”

Light refreshments will be served and all community members are welcome. RSVPs are not required. If you have questions concerning the kickoff meeting, please contact Ruth Lincoln at 707-262-5032.