Holzer’s Stroke Support Group
Holzer Health System continues to provide a stroke support group for stroke survivors, their caregivers, and other friends and family members! This group, “Stroke Strong,” is led by Tonya Estep, Infection Prevention and Control Auditor at Holzer. She has been heading this vital program since early 2024.
“2024 was a good year for Stroke Strong. We provided a great resource for those dealing with stroke issues. Overall, we finished the year with a small but strong group of stroke survivors and caregivers. We look forward to helping each other and new members. This topic is near and dear to my heart; my father dealt with stroke issues later in life, and we struggled with many difficult decisions during his recovery,” says Estep.
Estep’s stroke support group has covered a lot of crucial information, such as online resources for caregivers, tips for better communication when it comes to people dealing with aphasia, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, and details regarding advance directives and medical power of attorney.
Two guest speakers talked to the “Stroke Strong” members in 2024. The first speaker was Dr. Daniel Black, a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist who is the former medical director of Holzer’s Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit. He shared lifestyle recommendations and inspired everyone to challenge their minds by learning new things, engaging in healthy habits, and utilizing audio books. The second guest speaker, Lisa Stepp, MSN, APRN, Manager of Patient Safety at Holzer, talked about the importance of taking vital signs at home. She emphasized that caregivers should seek medical advice to make sure everything is in order, especially if something seems to be out of the ordinary. Caregivers are very familiar with their respective patients and can be the first person to notice changes. Overall, Estep wants to recruit more experts this year so they can talk to the group and provide expertise.
The “Stroke Strong” group had a “Merry and Bright” celebration to end 2024. Everyone celebrated the holiday season and enjoyed crafts, gifts, and refreshments. It was a time of celebration, but members also looked forward to the upcoming year. Estep says, “In 2025, we want to grow our membership, learn more from excellent guest speakers, plan beneficial field trips, have fun, and continue to be positive resources for one another. We are eager to welcome new members!”
“Stroke Strong’s” upcoming meetings are on March 17, March 31, and April 14. These will take place at 4:30pm in the Holzer Therapy and Wellness Center’s Eastman Family Community Room, located at 735 2nd Avenue, Gallipolis, Ohio 45631. Additional meetings will follow every other Monday. If you have any questions or would like to present on an area of your expertise, contact Tonya Estep at 740-446-5158!
