Whether maintaining good health or lowering the risk of another stroke, exercise is a key element. In cooperation with Anytime Fitness in Peoria, IL and Germantown Hills, IL, survivors are offered free gym time with a trainer, once a week. In addition, special memberships are offered to survivors and caregivers.
For more information in developing Stronger Than A Stroke in your community, email
"I see people make new friendships, believe in themselves again, challenge themselves, expand their horizons."
"Since Bob's stroke over 3 years ago, the four camps we have attended have been our foundation of hope, support, education, positive networking, and friendships. To be part of a group which truly accepts and nourishes who we are, as either a survivor or caregiver, is extraordinary."
"The entire experience was unforgettable and I will carry it with me always. I have volunteered many times, but never have I worked with a nicer group of people and felt more 'inspired'."
"Amanda had her first manicure as she had always been embarrassed at the way her hand looked. All her life Amanda had been looking to fit in and for someone to understand what her life was like, after a journey of almost 30 years, she had finally found what she had been looking for.
(Amanda had a stroke in 1984 at 1 day old.)"
"I am most gratified when I see caregivers and survivors enjoying themselves when they are engaged in different activities and interacting with others."
"What I like most about camp is watching campers evolve and grow! Seeing newbies transform from shy, hesitant, and withdrawn to engaged participants with new hope for the future. Seeing the continued growth of return campers and to watch this growth continue year to year."
"We wanted to thank-you form the bottom of our hearts for the opportunity to participate in such a life changing weekend. Brian came home with a new sense of Hope, Kira with a sense of gratitude, and our 4 yr. old is asking when we can return. This was an amazing event that we were blessed to share. Words can never express just how much this retreat helped our family."
"Our attitude about Paul's stroke and to each other has changed tremendously since camp!"
"A 48-hour caregiver respite. Relentless pampering by the staff and by the volunteers. Caregiver-tocaregiver sharing as well as survivor-only activities. Fun and games. Arts and crafts. Music and laugh-outloud skits. Educational. Practical. Spiritual. Best thing we've done in 11 years."
"Being able to see how the survivors and caregivers have developed and progressed since their hospitalization brings me hope and renewed energy."
"My experience was a well worth trip to Mt. Charleston, there was so much offered that you never was bored and excited to move on to the next adventure. Everyone was so loving and caring its amazing the feeling you get from being with people who truly care. I'm a Voluntary at Siena and I will to all my patient who had a stroke to be aware of Stroke Retreat and how you can live after a Stroke and mostly to experience happiness and hope again. Keep it going worth coming to. Blessing, Cordella Rubin"
"I most enjoyed the camaraderie with other stroke survivors my age."
"The thing I like most about Stroke Camp is meeting and connecting with other survivors and the total acceptance you feel from everyone. I honestly believe you could add the word 'vital' to your list of adjectives."
"When you see something as simple as Stroke Camp make such a big difference in the lives of stroke survivors and caregivers it is truly heartwarming. Knowing that our support provides such a positive experience for the campers and the volunteers is a true gift."
"I got a glimpse into what caregivers do 24/7. A very humbling experience."
"My husband and I look back on Stroke Camp as a turning point in our marriage and family life. Things had deteriorated pretty badly after my stroke, but camp showed us a new way. We backslid a few weeks later and then my husband really decided to make things different and it has been WONDERFUL! We are so grateful for all Stroke Camp meant for our kids and us."
Remember BE-FASTER! and help spread stroke awareness with our free app for Apple and Android devices. This app does not collect any personal information.
