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.

In recent years, our understanding of Parkinson's Disease (PD) has undergone a significant transformation.