On July 29, 2020 Mekhi, a healthy 14yr old, recent graduate of Skinner West was at a friend’s house playing basketball. While playing he was hit with the ball, causing a jerk to his neck. Mekhi complained of neck pain the next day, but thought little of it. While getting dressed to visit the friends house again the next day, Mekhi's speech began to slur as he complained of his left arm being "pulled". Mekhi was experiencing an ischemic stroke.

Thanks to the F.A.S.T. action of his mom, Mekhi was hospitalized and had two blood clots surgically removed from his brain all within 24 hours of the incident. Identifying the signs and acting quickly was critical to Mekhi's best chance for a full recovery.  Because of a successful surgery, an awesome care team, support and prayers of family and friends, Mekhi is making AMAZING steps towards a full recovery. 

According to the National Library of Medicine, roughly 75% of children with a stroke will survive, up to 25% of children will have a recurrence, and up to 66% will have persistent neurological deficits or develop subsequent seizure disorders, learning, or developmental problems. Given the onset of impairment during childhood and the effect on quality of life for the child, the economic and emotional costs are amplified.

Thanks to each of you for your support and encouragement. It means more to our family than you can imagine. For every kind gesture we will be forever grateful.
 

And please remember to think F.A.S.T.- it can save a life

F. Face Drooping | A. Arm Weakness | S. Speech Difficulty |T. Time to call 911