American Heart Association, HealthSouth to host Strokes for Strokes Art Therapy

The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association and HealthSouth Reading Rehabilitation Hospital invite stroke survivors, their caregivers and therapists to take part in the free Strokes for Strokes art therapy painting class on Saturday, Jan. 21 from 1-4 p.m. at Yocum Institute for Arts Education, 1100 Belmont Ave., Wyomissing.

This creative class led by a local artist helps those recovering from a stroke by stimulating brain function and improving handeye coordination. Research shows that painting and art therapy can be an enjoyable way to enhance rehabilitation for stroke patients.

The stroke art therapy project is supported by HealthSouth Reading Rehabilitation Hospital as part of their sponsorship of the Berks County Heart Walk, set for Sunday, September 23, 2017 at Gring’s Mill Recreation Area in Reading.

Every year, almost 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke, one every 40 seconds. Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death in the U.S. and a leading cause of longterm disability. However,

stroke is largely treatable and preventable.

Anyone interested in participating in the Strokes for Stroke painting class can register by contacting Andrea King of the American Heart Association at andrea.king@heart.org or 614-396-3501.

For more information about spotting the signs of a stroke, stroke risk factors and treatment, visit www. strokeassociation.org.