On this Stroke Awareness Day, it’s important to understand that a stroke is not typically a random, instantaneous event. According to The Noakes Foundation, while a stroke appears sudden — a blocked or ruptured artery in the brain — the reality is it often follows years of quietly building metabolic and vascular damage.

For many families, cognitive decline and dementia are not just medical diagnoses — they’re life-altering experiences. Watching a loved one lose their memory, personality or independence brings heartbreak, stress and financial strain. Daily routines can change overnight; spouses become caregivers; children take on new responsibilities. It’s no wonder so many people feel powerless in the face of these conditions.

Are you finding it harder to focus, remember details, or maintain mental clarity throughout your day?