American Stroke Month - Soda City Living
May 27, 2026 — During American Stroke Month, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia is working to raise awareness about the warning signs of stroke and the importance of early intervention.
Medical Director Dr. Devin Troyer recently joined stroke survivor and American Heart Association volunteer Mary Kimball Osborn in a media interview to highlight how recognizing symptoms quickly can save lives.
Troyer emphasized the importance of knowing and understanding the B.E. F.A.S.T. acronym — a simple but critical tool for identifying stroke symptoms. The acronym stands for balance loss, eye (vision) changes, face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and time to call 911.
“Recognizing these signs early and seeking immediate medical care can make all the difference,” Troyer said.
He also stressed that prevention plays a key role in reducing stroke risk. Regular medical checkups can help identify underlying conditions, such as high blood pressure, that often go unnoticed.
“One of the most common causes of stroke is high blood pressure, and it often goes undiagnosed,” Troyer told Soda City Living. “The good news is that up to 80% of strokes are preventable if we manage our health and stay consistent with medications.”
Osborn, speaking from personal experience, reinforced the importance of awareness and quick action, encouraging others to learn the signs.
Through education and community outreach, Encompass Health Columbia hopes to educate and empower individuals to recognize the warning signs of stroke and seek immediate care.