Meet Marion Mecca, a nurse at Mosaic Medical Center – Albany, who's making a difference during National Nurses' Week by raising awareness about strokes during Stroke Awareness Month. Find out how Marion's quick thinking helped save her husband's life when he showed stroke symptoms. This story shows how nurses like Marion make a big difference, especially during Nurses Week.

May holds special significance for Marion Mecca, RN, House Supervisor, with 42 years of experience, 14 of which have been at Mosaic. As we observe Stroke Awareness Month, Marion's dedication to teaching her community about stroke prevention and early intervention is magnified by National Nurses' Week – a time to honor nurses like Marion.

Marion's passion for stroke awareness began with a personal experience highlighting the importance of knowing the signs and acting quickly. "My husband is a teacher," she says, "and he recently put up a BE FAST poster in his classroom that I provided him." That decision proved crucial when her husband showed symptoms mirroring those on the poster. When he said, “My mouth feels numb like I have been at the dentist,” Marion quickly urged him to visit the ER to be assessed. Marion states, "As a caregiver, we're trained to recognize these symptoms," she explains. "I have always discussed stroke symptoms with him."

The incident stressed the power of education and awareness. Marion and her coworker, Vicky Hardy, RN, took proactive steps to educate their community about stroke prevention and early intervention.

"Earlier this year, Vicky and I visited North Harrison High School to present a stroke presentation," Marion shares. "Our goal was to raise awareness of stroke symptoms. Early recognition and intervention are crucial during a stroke."

As National Nurses' Week unfolds, Marion reflects on nurses' profound impact on health care and community wellness. "In the past decade, there's been increased education about stroke," she notes. Marion encourages people not to hesitate in seeking help if they notice stroke symptoms in others. "It could greatly improve their quality of life. Don't delay treatment – save that time for your future."

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Marion and all nurses who tirelessly strive to make a difference in the lives of their patients, friends and families. Without their dedication, we wouldn't be where we are today. Thank you, and Happy Nurses' Week.