Fast Heroes teach kids to spot stroke signs and save lives
Fast Heroes teaches children aged five to nine to spot stroke symptoms fast and take action to help save their grandparents’ lives.
POLOKWANE – A young child can be a hero in an emergency, especially when their grandparents fall ill. Since many grandparents care for their grandchildren while parents are at work, knowing how to act in a medical crisis can make all the difference. The Fast Heroes initiative empowers children aged five to nine by teaching them to recognise the symptoms of a stroke and take immediate action.
Carla Scholtz from the Angels Initiative recently visited Polokwane to introduce the programme. The Angels Initiative is a global healthcare project focused on improving stroke care by setting up stroke-ready hospitals and enhancing treatment quality in existing facilities.
Scholtz reiterated the importance of the Fast Heroes mission, highlighting that stroke is the second-leading cause of death and the third-leading cause of disability worldwide. “Children can make a difference by teaching their siblings, friends, parents, and other family members about the signs of a stroke,” she said.
Introduced at Northview Christian Academy last year, the programme not only teaches children about the signs of a stroke but also instills values of empathy and love. Participants receive tools to help them assist their grandparents in a medical emergency.
Fast Heroes features a team of retired superheroes and their grandson, each with a special power linked to stroke symptoms:
• Franc the Face – A stroke can cause facial drooping.
• Armando the Arms – Weakness or loss of strength in an arm is a warning sign.
• Sophia the Singer – Speech difficulties are another symptom.
• Timmy on Time – Immediate action is crucial, and calling emergency services without delay is key.
• Tanya the Teacher – She spreads awareness about stroke symptoms.
Schools interested in joining the initiative can visit visit https://za-en.fastheroes.com/ to learn more.
