It may be just a "simple thing," but raising awareness to the benefits of eating right and getting exercise as well as teaching the signs of stroke or heart attack can and does make a difference to many.
This is a long standing dedication of local, Barb Ryan who has canvassed for the Heart and Stroke Foundation for 21 years. Ryan revived the local Annual Heart Fund Dinner this year after a three year hiatus. "It was a success," stated Ryan "this is such a wonderful community." The 21st Annual Heart Fund Dinner had 70 plus in attendance, all whom enjoyed a Turkey Dinner with all the trimmings.
Carrera Winterlik, Okanagan/Kootenay Community Development Coordinator, for BC Heart & Stroke came out to support Ryan with the evening. Winterlik presented a short film on a heart patient who thanked the Heart and Stroke Foundation for their efforts which helped in extending his life.
Thanks and presentations of flower arrangements were given by Ryan to Winterlik for her support and to Eleanor Sinclair, Ryan's mother. "Without the help of my Mom, I couldn't have gotten this evening together," Ryan stated "thanks so much Mom."
Ryan also extended her appreciation to: members of the Legion Ladies Auxiliary; Dawn Johnson, Elizabeth Kightley, Gina Read, Arlene Marsel and her husband Blaine Marsel, all who helped with the dinner. To the Royal Canadian Legion for donating the hall and to Branch Manager Kathy Wasylenchuk for all her assistance.
Special thanks as well to donators and supporters; Billy's Family Restaurant, Princeton Home Hardware, Heart to Heart Flowers & Gifts, Country Kitchen Restaurant, Princeton Bakery/Loonie Bin, the "Potato Man," and to Princeton Overwaitea.
Ryan plans to do this all over again next year with one small change—a luncheon instead of dinner.
For more information on Heart & Stroke as well as the benefits of eating right and getting exercise visit www.heartandstroke.bc.ca
Are you aware of the warning signs?
Signs of a Heart Attack - one or more of: • chest pain or discomfort • pain in arm, neck, jaw or back • sweating • nausea • difficulty breathing
Signs of a Stroke - one or more of: SUDDEN • weakness, numbness • trouble speaking • vision problems • severe headache • dizziness
Should you experience one or more of the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, call 911 or your emergency medical number immediately.