Stroke survivors, caregivers invited to support summit at UMC

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Having a stroke can be a scary experience, which is why University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC) is providing a summit this weekend advocating for better outcomes for stroke survivors.

UMC said the event is free and open to the public for a day of expert education. It will take place Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Starlight Event Center (6650 Continental Dr.). While the event is free, UMC provided a website to secure a spot to attend.

The summit is a step forward from what UMC provides in stroke care, the hospital said.

"I think each testimonial will be an inspiration to all of our guests because each experience is unique," said Carla Escobar from UMC.

Maggie Whittam, a stroke survivor, will bring her perspective on navigating life after a stroke. Whittam survived a brainstem stroke at 33 years old, which resulted in permanent physical and visual disabilities. She's now working on a documentary, "The Great Now What," about resilience in the aftermath of a health crisis.

Escobar hopes sharing stroke survivors' stories at the summit will help other survivors and caregivers.

UMC said it has more than 700 stroke patients. Strokes are a disabling condition that created long-term impairments with up to years of recovery.

Stroke survivors will attend the summit to share their personal journeys to inspire others in rehabilitation.

Beyond the summit, UMC said it has a mobile stroke unit and monthly support groups.