Hammersmith and Fulham stroke survivor backs Stroke Association’s FAST message

Stroke survivor Fernando Da Silva, 68, from Hammersmith and Fulham is urging people across London to be aware of the warning signs of stroke, and share the FAST message to help save more lives.

Fernando’s daughter, Monica Da Silva, 38, recognised the signs of a stroke and acted FAST when her father was struck down by a stroke.

Monica said: “It was just like any other normal day. When I arrived at my dad’s house, he was taking a shower, so I waited downstairs for him. I heard dad walk through the living room and speak to my husband. Moments later, when I walked to the kitchen, I could see my dad’s legs on the floor. I quickly ran over to him, and found him lying on the floor. He couldn't talk or move the right side of his body, but he was trying to lift his head. I could see his mouth had dropped on one side. I knew right then that he was having a stroke.

“I’ve always remembered the adverts about FAST on TV. As soon as I saw my dad’s mouth dropped on one side, the image of everything I’ve ever known about stroke came rushing to me. I quickly dialled 999, and dad was rushed to hospital.”

Fernando’s stroke has left him with a communication difficulty called aphasia. Monica said: “It’s heart-breaking to see. Although we acted FAST, dad’s stroke has left devastating effects. I don’t know if we’ll hear him speak again, though we’re working really hard to ensure he has as much support with his speech as possible.”

The Stroke Association is raising awareness of the signs of stroke, calling on people to learn the symptoms, and call 999 as soon as they spot them.

The FAST test helps people recognise the most common symptoms of a stroke and the right action to take:

FACE: Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped?

ARMS: Can the person raise both arms?

SPEECH: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say?

TIME to call 999

Garry Jopling, Head of Stroke Support at the Stroke Association, said: “Stroke can happen to anyone at any age, at any time, and when it strikes, every second counts.

“We want more people like Monica to learn the FAST test and share it with their friends and family. Knowing how to spot the warning signs of a stroke could save a life.”

To find out more about the FAST test, and the Stroke Association’s work to raise awareness of the warning signs of stroke, visit www.stroke.org.uk/FAST.