RALEIGH, N.C.-- Someone has a stroke every 40 seconds in the United States, and according to the American Stroke Association, North Carolina is in the Stroke Belt, meaning we see a 34 percent higher rate of stroke than the rest of the population.

  • The leading causes of strokes are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity and diabetes
  • Those suffering a stroke only have a short three-hour window to receive medicine to help with damage and recovery, which is why it’s important to know the warning signs
  • To help raise awareness and money for strokes and heart disease, the first ever CycleNation Ride is taking place in the Triangle, emcee’d by Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair.

CycleNation Triangle Chair Jeffrey W. Marquis, Sr. knows this all too well. At just 50 years old, he suffered a stroke, first thought to be a pinched nerve, but later properly diagnosed. He says those suffering a stroke only have a short three-hour window to receive medicine to help with damage and recovery, which is why it’s important to know the warning signs.

Remember FAST for Warning Signs of a Stroke:

  • Face drooping
  • Arm weakness
  • Speech problems
  • Time to call 911

The leading causes of strokes are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity and diabetes. So, it’s very important to know your numbers and get checked regularly by the doctor.

To help raise awareness and money for strokes and heart disease, the first ever CycleNation Ride is taking place in the Triangle, emcee’d by Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair.

  • WHAT: CycleNation Triangle Event
  • WHO: Teams of 4 ride relay-style on stationary bikes outside
  • WHEN: Saturday, June 15 from 3 p.m.- 5 p.m.
  • WHERE: Coastal Credit Union Midtown Park, North Hills in Raleigh, N.C.
  • WHY: To get the brain and heart healthy and raise funds to fight stroke through research and education
  • HOW: Registration is still open, and donations and volunteers are welcome.  Visit their the CycleNation website to join in

The American Stroke Association along with Triangle Life is Why, Duke Heart and CycleBar North Hills are all helping with the event.