American Stroke Association Opens Nominations for 2025 Stroke Hero Awards

The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, has announced the opening of nominations for the 2025 Stroke Hero Awards. This annual recognition program aims to honor stroke survivors, caregivers, advocates, and experts who have made exceptional contributions to the stroke community. The awards come at a critical time, as stroke continues to be a significant health concern in the United States, with someone experiencing a stroke every 40 seconds.

The 2025 Stroke Hero Awards feature seven categories, including a new addition, the F.A.S.T. Hero, which recognizes individuals who acted quickly to get help for someone experiencing a stroke. Other categories include Survivor Hero, Pediatric Hero, Caregiver Hero, Equity Hero, Group Heroes, and the Voters' Choice Hero. These diverse categories reflect the multifaceted nature of stroke care and prevention, from immediate response to long-term support and advocacy.

The importance of these awards extends beyond mere recognition. They serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness about stroke, its impact, and the critical role of community support in prevention and recovery. With nearly one in four stroke survivors facing the risk of a second stroke, the need for continued education and awareness is paramount. The awards highlight success stories and best practices that can inspire and guide others in the stroke community.

The nomination process for the 2025 Stroke Hero Awards is open until December 3, 2024. This extended nomination period allows ample time for individuals and organizations to identify and nominate deserving candidates across all categories. The winners will be announced on May 1, 2025, during American Stroke Month, providing a timely platform to amplify stroke awareness messages.

The inclusion of the Equity Hero category underscores the American Stroke Association's commitment to addressing health disparities in stroke care and prevention. This aligns with the broader mission of the American Heart Association to ensure equitable health outcomes across all communities. By recognizing efforts in this area, the awards encourage continued focus on reducing stroke disparities.

The Stroke Hero Awards also play a crucial role in community engagement. The Voters' Choice Hero category, determined by public voting in March 2025, invites the broader public to participate in the recognition process. This engagement not only increases the visibility of stroke awareness efforts but also fosters a sense of community involvement in addressing this critical health issue.

As the American Heart Association celebrates its centennial year in 2024, these awards take on additional significance. They represent a continuation of the organization's long-standing commitment to improving heart and brain health. The Stroke Hero Awards serve as a bridge between the achievements of the past century and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in stroke prevention and care.

The impact of these awards extends beyond individual recognition. They serve as a catalyst for change, inspiring others to take action in their communities. By sharing the stories of these stroke heroes, the American Stroke Association aims to empower individuals with knowledge about stroke prevention, recognition, and response. This grassroots approach to stroke awareness and education has the potential to save lives and improve outcomes for stroke survivors across the nation.

As nominations open for the 2025 Stroke Hero Awards, the American Stroke Association encourages individuals and groups to consider nominating those who have made a difference in the stroke community. Whether it's a survivor who has overcome significant challenges, a caregiver who has gone above and beyond, or a group that has implemented innovative stroke awareness programs, these awards provide an opportunity to recognize and celebrate their contributions to stroke care and prevention.