This is an educational support group for stroke awareness, recovery and prevention. The group also discusses community offerings for people with disabilities.

Dates: Meets 1st Wednesday of each month
Time: 5:00 pm- 6:00 pm
Location: Tampa General Hospital Rehabilitation Center, 2nd Floor, R200
Contact: Ann LaPlaca, (813) 844-7641; alaplaca@tgh.org, or Karen Wilson, RN, Stroke Coordinator, (813) 844-8434

The first annual Stroke Retreat and Refresh camp was held in May 2011 at Lakewood Retreat in Brooksville, Florida with great success. It was designed for both stroke survivors and caregivers. The camp gave stroke survivors and their caregivers the opportunity to participate in a camping experience based on support, education, socialization and relaxation. The primary mission of the camp was to improve the quality of life for survivors and caregivers through an experience that motivated, inspired and supported them. This three day recreational and educational experience was designed specifically for stroke survivors, caregivers and their family members. Through activities, educational sessions and unlimited exposure to other survivors, caregivers and family members, participants left this weekend experience full of hope for the future. Through the efforts of volunteers, participants were encouraged to relax, learn and build relationships with other campers. It is clear our purpose not only yields benefits for the survivors and their caregivers, but also creates an opportunity for volunteers, professionals and the surrounding community. Everyone enjoyed the camp and was a great success.

The second annual TGH Stroke camp will be held on May 4-6, 2012 at Christian Retreat Center in Bradenton, Florida and hopes for an even greater response.

Resources provided the National Stroke Association:

• Stroke Survivors
• Life After Stroke