Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1518196
6 | Health Matters: Providence Holy Cross Medical Center it was only when confronted with her own family 's medical crisis that she realized the true depth of her gratitude. "I didn't realize just how good our hospital is, not until that happened," Dela Fuente reflects. "You just don't appreciate it fully until a family member is taken care of … I saw the importance of a great hospital—a great team— and the resources Providence Holy Cross provided. And I'm forever grateful." Chua also expresses deep appreciation for her daughter 's compassionate care and for the entire medical staff. "I'm so grateful for the hospital and all the staff caring for me in the time I needed it most," she says. "If not for Providence Holy Cross, I maybe would not be in the world." The experience has left an indelible mark on both Chua and her family, underscoring the importance of timely and expert care in moments of crisis. At Providence Holy Cross, every stroke patient is given the same unwavering commitment to excellence and compassion. With a comprehensive range of advanced treatments, the medical center offers innovative solutions with lower complication rates and a multidisciplinary team to ensure each patient receives personalized and effective treatment. With an emphasis on quality and compassion, Providence Holy Cross Medical Center is honored to provide award-winning stroke care. Our medical center is certified as a Comprehensive Stroke Center by DNV GL Healthcare, the international gold standard in recognizing the highest level of treatment for complex stroke cases. Learn more about our stroke care by calling 844-510-4325. KNOW THE SIGNS OF STROKE Recognizing the far-reaching impact of stroke, Providence Holy Cross integrates stroke education into patient care and community outreach efforts. Central to these efforts is the promotion of BEFAST—an acronym highlighting the signs and symptoms of stroke: • Balance loss • Eyesight changes • Face drooping • Arm weakness • Speech difficulty • Time to call emergency services Stroke Health Fair Since 2022, Providence Holy Cross has hosted an annual Stroke Health Fair, aiming to expand awareness and education while providing valuable health screenings. Attendees benefit from screenings such as blood pressure checks and carotid ultrasound screenings, alongside educational sessions led by nutritionists, diabetes educators, physical therapists, stroke survivors and more. With interactive games, visual learning experiences and raffle item giveaways, the fair offers a fun way for residents of all ages to engage in stroke education. Keep an eye out for more information about the 2024 Stroke Health Fair later this year. Stroke Support Group Providence Holy Cross offers ongoing support for stroke survivors and their families through a dedicated Stroke Support Group. Meeting monthly, the group provides a safe space for discussion, education and coping strategies. The group meets on the last Wednesday of every month from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Providence Holy Cross. Those interested can learn more and register by calling 818-496-4524.