Rolling toward promoting stroke prevention and awareness

More than 600 participants came out to roll, walk or run at Rancho Los Amigos “Roll Around the Ranch Health and Wellness Fair” on Saturday at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center.

Rancho Los Amigos “Roll Around the Ranch Health and Wellness Fair” event is the seventh one put on by the organization.

It is a 5K/1K roll, walk or run for all to participate in. This event for the campus specifically focuses on promoting stroke awareness and prevention.

There were 49 community vendors at the health and wellness fair this year which was an increase from the 30 vendors they had last year. Vendors ranged from health care providers, in-home care, kids area and food vendors.

The run, walk and roll 5K/1K was free for all who registered before May 10. Participants who did not register could register the day of the even for $10 all profits collected will go toward future Roll around the Ranch events.

The event was started in 2006 by a group at Rancho Los Amigos that wanted to fill a void since the National Stroke Association event had ended due to limited resources.

The event gives an opportunity for people of all abilities to participate and celebrates the patients’ accomplishments as they recovery process at Rancho Los Amigos.

The first Roll Around the Ranch Health and Wellness Fair began in 2007.

Each participant receives a medal as they cross the finish line.

A “wall of hope” displays names in memory of loved ones or in support of family, friends, co-workers and others who have had a stroke.

Below is an interview with Kyle Yetter, Occupational Therapist with the Occupational Therapy Association of California.