Ludhiana, October 30, 2025 (News Team): On the occasion of World Stroke Day, Fortis Ludhiana, Mall Road, Ludhiana, held a Walkathon to increase awareness around stroke prevention, the significance of promptly seeking medical attention, and the timely recognition of stroke symptoms. By stressing that every minute counts when it comes to stroke management, the initiative sought to educate citizens about the importance of early detection, lifestyle management, and emergency response in stroke care.
The event witnessed active participation from around 60 local residents and fitness enthusiasts who joined hands to walk for the cause of stroke awareness. The Walkathon was flagged off from Fortis Hospital, Mall Road, Ludhiana, with participants covering key stretches around the hospital premises to symbolize collective commitment towards health and preventive care.
The Walkathon was flagged off by Mr. Gurdarshan Singh Mangat, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Mall Road, Ludhiana, Mr. Sunveer Singh Bhambra, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana & Mr. Ravcharan Singh Brar Former SSP, Jt Commissioner of Police from Ludhiana (Currently Consultant at Punjab Police Academy Phillaur) along with the hospital’s leading team of neuro specialists: Dr. Kirat Singh Grewal (Consultant – Neurology), Dr. Vishnu Gupta (Director – Neuro Surgery), Dr. Saurav Aggarwal (Consultant – Neurology), Dr. Vaibhav Tandon (Consultant – Neurology), and Dr. Ira Chowdhary (Associate Consultant – Neurology).
Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Gurdarshan Singh Mangat, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Mall Road, Ludhiana said, “Through this Walkathon, we aim to make people aware that stroke is pressing medical emergency where time is brain. Simple actions like recognizing the warning signs early and reaching the hospital immediately, can make all the difference between recovery and disability in such cases. At Fortis Ludhiana, we are committed towards building community awareness and encouring preventive healthcare, ensuring that people are informed, alert, and empowered to act swiftly when it matters most.”
Dr. Kirat Singh Grewal, Consultant – Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Mall Road, Ludhiana added, "Stroke can happen to anyone, at any age. However, with prompt action and a healthy lifestyle, it can be largely prevented. Important precautionary measures include a balanced diet, regular exercise, blood pressure and diabetes management, and quitting smoking. Through this initiative, we aimed to educate citizens about recognizing the early symptoms of stroke like sudden weakness, facial drooping, slurred speech, and the importance of seeking immediate medical care in such cases.”
Dr. Vishnu Gupta, Director- Neuro Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Mall Road, Ludhiana further emphasized,“The brain begins to lose millions of neurons each minute after a stroke. Acting quickly can mean the difference between walking out of the hospital or living with lifelong disability. While prevention and awareness are critical, it is of utmost importance that patients reach a well-equipped facility in time. The first few hours after a stroke are crucial. With rapid diagnosis, clot-busting treatments, and advanced neurosurgical care, we can significantly improve patient outcomes and recovery rates.”