Steve Lofton

Last week, I experienced something that no one ever expects—a stroke. Thankfully, I’m incredibly fortunate that none of my faculties have been affected. I can still walk, talk, run, jump, and I’ve been cleared for just about everything. However, due to DOT regulations, after 40 years of being a commercial truck driver, I’ve been disqualified from driving for a year. Surprisingly, I’m at total peace with it. This event has opened my eyes to the importance of recognizing the signs of a stroke and the critical need to act fast.

One of the most important things I learned through this experience is the BE FAST acronym, a simple yet powerful tool that can save lives when every second counts.

What Does BE FAST Stand For?

B – Balance:

Sudden loss of balance or coordination can be an early sign of a stroke. If you feel dizzy or experience a sudden lack of coordination, it could be a warning sign that something is seriously wrong.

E – Eyes:

Blurred or double vision or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes can indicate a stroke. If you or someone near you experiences these symptoms, it’s crucial to take them seriously.

F – Face:

One of the most well-known signs of a stroke is facial drooping. Ask the person to smile, and if one side of their face droops or appears uneven, it may be a sign of a stroke.

A – Arms:
Weakness or numbness in the arms is another key indicator. Ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downward or they cannot raise one arm, it could be a sign of a stroke.

S – Speech:
Sudden trouble speaking, slurred speech, or difficulty understanding speech are major red flags. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. If their words are slurred or they struggle to repeat the phrase, it’s time to act.

T – Time:
Time is of the essence when dealing with a stroke. If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately. The faster a person receives medical attention, the better the chances of minimizing the impact of the stroke.

Why Acting Fast Is Crucial

When it comes to a stroke, every second counts. The longer a stroke goes untreated, the more brain cells die, leading to potentially severe and irreversible damage. Immediate treatment can significantly reduce the long-term effects of a stroke and increase the chances of a full recovery.

In my case, I was fortunate. I recognized something wasn’t right and sought medical attention quickly, which is why I can share this story with you today. But not everyone is as lucky. That’s why I want to stress the importance of knowing the BE FAST acronym and understanding that acting fast can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing a stroke has been a wake-up call for me, and I hope this information serves as a wake-up call for you too. Whether it’s recognizing the signs in yourself or in someone else, knowing the BE FAST acronym could save a life. Don’t wait—if you suspect a stroke, BE FAST, and get help immediately.

Your health is your greatest asset. Take care of it, and remember that sometimes, the best way to protect it is by being prepared and informed.

This blog post is not just a reflection on my experience but a call to action for everyone to educate themselves about the signs of a stroke. Please share this information with your loved ones—it could save their lives.