Above: A Southborough resident is using the 2024 Boston Marathon to raise awareness of stroke and heart disease, and support survivors (Tedy’s Team logo)
[The Boston Marathon always includes a pack of runners from our town. Between now and Patriots Day, I’m featuring stories of resident runners donning bibs for a cause]
Southborough’s Edward Sullivan is running on Patriot’s Day for Tedy’s Team, in honor of his father:
My father passed away unexpectantly in 2023 at the age of 79. Dad survived two major strokes nearly 35 years ago. His determination and dedication to his recovery and living his best life after his strokes set an example for our entire family.
The mission of Tedy’s Team is to raise awareness for stroke and heart disease while supporting survivors on their journey, giving them a means for a comeback! . . .
The Boston Athletic Association has allowed us to utilize this platform to elevate the awareness of the warning signs of stroke, which are best remembered by using the acronym BE FAST, which stands for: Balance Difficulties, Eyesight Changes, Face Drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulties – and if you notice any of those warning signs, it’s TIME TO CALL 9-1-1. BE FAST is an acronym to help you quickly recognize common signs of a stroke and to take any necessary action by calling for emergency medical services. Other symptoms may include sudden and severe unexplained headache or migraine with no obvious cause, and confusion or trouble understanding things they would normally know.
Please also note the warning signs of heart attack are:
- Chest pain and discomfort
- Lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting
- Jaw, neck of back pain
- Discomfort or pain in the arm or shoulder
- Shortness of breath
If you have any of these symptoms, listen to your body and please call 9-1-1 immediately.
To support the fundraiser, click here. To learn more about the non-profit, click here.
[Note: If you are a Southborough resident using the Marathon to raise funds/awareness for a cause, please reach out with your information. Email mysouthborough@gmail.com.]
