CHICAGO(May 9, 2017) — The Chicago Fire Soccer Club and the University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System (UI Health) have partnered to host Stroke Awareness Night for the second consecutive year when the defending MLS Cup champion Seattle Sounders FC visit Toyota Park on Saturday, May 13 at 8 p.m. CT (ESPN2/Univision Chicago 1200 AM).
Fire fans will have many other opportunities to learn about stroke awareness leading up to and during the match. Fire Fest will feature a UI Health station staffed by stroke education volunteers, and fans can pick up a UI Health lunch tote on their way into the stadium with a stroke awareness information card inside.
Additionally, the Fire are sharing the story of Ben Lindau, an 18-year-old Chicago Fire Juniors City player, who suffered a stroke in his early-teens and has spent the past six months training with the U.S. Paralympic Team. The Fire conducted a video interview with Ben in advance of the May 13 match, and Ben will be recognized during halftime of the game.
On May 13, the ceremonial First Kick will be taken by UI Health’s Dr. Fernando Testai, Stroke Program Medical Director in the Department of Neurology & Rehabilitation, and his son Martin. Dr. Ali Alaraj from UI Health’s Department of Neurosurgery will take part in the ceremonial coin toss.
May is Stroke Awareness Month and the Fire and UI Health are aiming to help get the message out. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, and knowing the warning signs of stroke can lead to more responsive care, resulting in a quicker recovery. There are more than 7 million stroke survivors in the U.S. today.
A stroke awareness campaign throughout the month of May will focus on educating the community of the signs and symptoms of stroke and the importance of seeking treatment immediately at premier facility like UI Health. For more information, visit UIHealthstroke.care.
UI Health is one of just three hospitals in Illinois certified as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, a designation reserved for health facilities that meet the most meticulous standards for stroke services and care. Stroke patients at UI Health have access to extensive care 24/7.
Tickets for the May 13 match are available at Ticketmaster or by calling 888-MLS-FIRE.
