Page 12 - South Mississippi Living - May, 2026

COAST NOTE
Advancing
Stroke Care
Across the Coast
Sold-Out Symposium Brings Regional Healthcare Professionals Together
story by Cherie Ward
photos courtesy of Singing River Health System
Singing River Health System’s 14th Annual Stroke Symposium once again solidified its role as a leading educational event along the Gulf Coast, selling out 425 tickets in less than 24 hours. Held at the Golden Nugget Casino in Biloxi, the symposium welcomed 385 healthcare professionals from Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Florida.
The annual event always draws a wide range of medical professionals involved in stroke care, including physicians, nurses, rehabilitation therapists, pharmacists, radiology technologists, and emergency medical services personnel. That diversity reflects the collaborative approach required to effectively address stroke, from prevention and rapid response to recovery and long-term support.
Throughout the day, attendees participated in educational sessions focused on the latest evidence-based practices in
stroke care. Topics spanned the full continuum, including early recognition, emergency intervention, acute treatment, and rehabilitation strategies. Presenters translated current research into practical applications, offering tools and insights that healthcare providers can immediately implement in clinical and community settings.
In addition to the educational programming, 23 exhibitors showcased resources, services, and technologies designed
to support stroke patients beyond the hospital setting. From rehabilitation tools to home-based care solutions, the exhibits provided attendees with a broader view of how innovation continues to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
A unique addition to this year’s symposium highlighted the importance of early education through the B.E.F.A.S.T.—Be a Superhero children’s book initiative. Designed to teach the
warning signs of stroke in an accessible, age-appropriate way, the program encourages families to recognize symptoms quickly while also promoting childhood literacy. By extending awareness efforts beyond clinical settings, the initiative reinforces the community’s role in improving stroke response.
Now in its 14th year, the Stroke Symposium continues to serve as a cornerstone for regional collaboration and education, strengthening connections among healthcare providers while advancing the standard of care across the Coast.
Singing River Health System also continues to support stroke survivors and caregivers through its Stroke Support Group, a free resource offering education, encouragement, and peer connection. The group facebook.com/groups/singingriverstrokesupport is available to everyone.
12 | May 2026
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