The campaign ‘Do Good, Feel Good in June’ will see Ulster Bank staff around the country take part in a nationwide relay covering over 2,000 kms in one week to raise funds for the charity.
Participants will pass the baton from branch to branch visiting over 100 locations along the way, before finishing in Athlone on 23rd June.
The aim of the campaign is to support Irish Heart’s efforts to drive awareness of stroke, how to recognise the vital signs and act FAST.
Stroke is Ireland’s third biggest killer but hundreds of lives could be saved if more people knew how to react. The average stroke destroys two million brain cells every minute, so acting FAST could save hundreds of lives.
Pictured: Stroke Hero Dylan McKenna (aged 9) and former Irish Heart Child Courage Award winner helped save his dad Thomas from a stroke when was only three years of age by getting to a phone FAST.
Speaking about the initiative, Ciarán Coyle, CAO of Ulster Bank said; “At Ulster Bank, giving something back to our communities is really important. For the fifth year running, throughout the month of June, staff across the country will be raising funds for charity.
“This year, we’re donating all funds raised to support Irish Heart to help raise awareness around stroke, the third biggest killer in Ireland. Stroke affects people of all ages so we are so we’re keen to help get that message out there among our colleagues and their families, as well as our customers and communities. We are proud to be part of such a practical, national campaign educating people about what to do when someone close to them is experiencing
“We are proud to be part of such a practical, national campaign educating people about what to do when someone close to them is experiencing stroke.”
Stroke is not just something that happens to older people. Statistics from the National Stroke Audit published jointly by Irish Heart and the HSE’s National Stroke Programme, revealed a 26% increase in the proportion of strokes among under 65s – the equivalent of over 300 extra strokes among people of working age in Ireland every year.
Chris Macey, Head of Advocacy for Irish Heart said; “About 10,000 strokes happen in Ireland every year, that’s more than one stroke every hour. It’s crucial that people understand the importance of getting to hospital quickly. We are delighted that Ulster Bank has come on board as our partner for this campaign. Their staff all around the country are already very enthusiastic about the campaign, and with their help we’re aiming to raise awareness of the early signs of stroke and how to act FAST.
