The Life After Stroke Awards (LASA) formally recognise and celebrate the achievements of people who have shown remarkable courage and determination in rebuilding their lives following a stroke. The awards also honour the work of carers, volunteers, health professionals and charity supporters who show commitment and compassion in helping those affected by stroke.
Siemens plc was chosen largely because of its Stroke for Stroke campaign which launched in 2007. This has become an annual initiative to promote the company’s sponsorship of the GB rowing team and raise much needed funds for The Stroke Association. Siemens plc created this campaign to encourage its employees and the public at large to take more regular exercise such as rowing, whether on water or in the gym, to improve their health and reduce the risk of stroke.
Head of Corporate Fundraising at The Stroke Association James Beeby said: “Each year The Stroke Association receives valuable support from corporate partners all over the UK. This year we wanted to reward the work of Siemens - a corporate partner that has helped to raise money through its staff and the public, and has also raised awareness of stroke in general. The Stroke Association is immensely grateful for their continued support and looks forward to working with Siemens plc on the next Stroke for Stroke campaign.”
Andreas J. Goss, Chief Executive, Siemens plc said: “We are delighted and honoured to be given the Corporate Sponsor award from The Stroke Association. The Stroke Association does such great work to help the prevention and treatment of stroke and I have heard some truly inspiring stories at today’s award ceremony. We hope that through our support and the Stroke for Stroke campaign we can continue to help the Stroke Association raise further vital funds and awareness of the UK’s third biggest killer. We look forward to working with The Stroke Association in the future and continuing to build on our successful partnership.”
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For further information or to arrange interviews please contact the Media Team at The Stroke Association on 020 7566 1500 or email press@stroke.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
1. The Stroke Association is the only UK charity solely concerned with combating stroke in people of all ages. The charity funds research into prevention, treatment, better methods of rehabilitation and helps stroke patients and their families directly through its community services, which include communications support, family and carer support, information services, welfare grants, publications and leaflets. The Stroke Association also campaigns, educates and informs to increase knowledge of stroke at all levels of society acting as a voice for everyone affected by stroke.
2. Life After Stroke Awards took place at Claridge’s in Central London on June 23 2009. The Corporate Supporter Award was presented to Andreas Goss by HRH The Duke of Kent – please see photo attached.
3. A stroke is a brain attack which causes brain damage. A stroke can be diagnosed by using FAST – Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech problems, Time to call 999. If any of these symptoms are present call an ambulance straight away.
4. 150,000 people have a stroke in the UK every year.
5. The Stroke Helpline provides information on stroke to the general public and is open between 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday on 0845 3033 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk
6.The next Stroke for Stroke Week will take place 25th – 31st January 2010
About Siemens in the UK
Siemens was established in the United Kingdom 166 years ago and now employs 18,402 people in the UK. Last year’s revenues were £3.7 billion. As a leading global engineering and technology services company, Siemens provides innovative solutions to help tackle the world’s major challenges, across the key sectors of energy, industry and healthcare. Siemens has offices and factories throughout the UK, with its headquarters in Frimley, Surrey. The company’s global headquarters is in Munich, Germany. For more information, visit www.siemens.co.uk