A Gold Coast man is sharing his stroke story with key Queensland decision makers, in a bid to improve outcomes for survivors of stroke and help prevent stroke in the community.
Marcus Burgess was a fit and healthy 47-year-old when he had a stroke in August 2020. He had just finished a fitness session when he started experiencing some common signs of stroke.
"My mobile slipped out of my hand, and I could not pick it up. I felt numbness down my left side and couldn't move my mouth properly," Marcus said.
Marcus knew the signs of stroke and an ambulance was called immediately. He was taken to hospital and had a good recovery.
"Because I knew the signs of a stroke, I was able to save my own life. I can be the father and husband that I want to be. I can get back to my work and my passions. I want that for other people too."
In his mission to spread awareness and help other survivors, Marcus will today share his story with Queensland MPs, calling on them to take action and ensure the Queensland Government is continuously working to improve outcomes for stroke survivors, improve access to treatment and provide ongoing education in prevention.
He'll be joined by Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy.
"This is a great opportunity for Queensland's decision makers to hear about the real-life impacts of stroke and how education on the signs of stroke can have a significant impact on a person's chance of survival and recovery."
In July this year, the Queensland Government announced it will roll out a $5.8 million Telestroke service which will provide survivors of stroke immediate access to Queensland's best stroke specialist doctors for assessment and advice on initial treatments. This is one example of the programs needed in Queensland to treat, prevent, and beat stroke.
"An estimated 5,300 Queenslanders will have had their first stroke by the end of this year. With ongoing government investment in stroke, not only can we work to bring this number down through prevention, but we can ensure more people are surviving stroke and living well after stroke, through awareness and improved access to treatment."
