Stroke Care

If you or a loved one experiences a stroke, count on VHC Health for high-quality, specialized care that helps you have the best possible recovery. Benefit from technology, qualified healthcare professionals, and programs that treat strokes from onset through recovery and rehabilitation.

Signs of Stroke

A stroke is a medical emergency. Use the acronym FAST to spot stroke signs:

• Face drooping – Ask the person to smile. Is his or her smile uneven or lopsided?
• Arm weakness – Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• Speech – Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is he or she unable to speak or hard to understand?
• Time to Call 9-1-1 – If the person shows any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 right away.

What to Expect

Effective stroke treatment begins in the emergency department with a swift and accurate diagnosis. Members of the stroke rehabilitation team use imaging tests to find blood clots, blockages in major arteries to the brain, and narrowed blood vessels or blood clots. Then, they'll provide the best treatment for your specific condition.

Emergency Stroke Treatment

Rest assured, VHC Health has the technology and personnel needed to provide emergency stroke treatment, such as:

• Injections of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) – Dissolves blood clots, improving blood flow to your brain
• Endovascular surgery – Guides thin, flexible tubes called catheters through your blood vessels to remove clots

Care for 'Mini-Strokes'

If you are diagnosed with a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or "mini-stroke"—when blood supply to a part of your brain is blocked temporarily—we'll refer you to a doctor who'll help you reduce your risk of future strokes.

Stroke Recovery

Get the best possible start to your recovery at VHC Health. Benefit from the knowledge of nurses with in-depth training and continuing education on caring for patients recovering from strokes. Rely on us to:

• Provide education about your condition and care options
• Help you and your family prepare for your return home
• Arrange for continuing therapy and services
• Help you reduce your risk of future strokes

VHC Stroke Survivors Group

Stroke can affect anyone—regardless of age—and its impact extends to survivors, families, and caregivers. You are not alone. Join us in a supportive environment where you can connect with others who understand the journey. Our group provides education, resources, and meaningful connections through shared experiences and peer support. 

NEW FOR 2026:

Beginning in January 2026, we will transition to meeting on the second Tuesday of each month. The meeting time will remain 5:30–7:00 PM.

First meeting of 2026:

• Tuesday, January 13, 2026 | 5:30–7:00 PM
• Location: VHC Health Outpatient Pavilion – Garden Level Conference Room
  1851 N. George Mason Dr.
• Parking: Zone E / Purple Garage

For more information or to be added to our monthly email list, please contact: strokesurvivors@vhchealth.org. Some meetings may be held in alternative locations, so joining the email list ensures you receive the most up-to-date details.

Stroke Rehabilitation Options

Work with your stroke care team to develop a care plan to fits your needs, goals, and challenges. After a stroke, you may benefit from:

• Inpatient stroke rehabilitation – You stay at the hospital to receive medical care and intensive rehabilitation therapy services
• Outpatient stroke rehabilitation – You live at home and visit VHC Health for regular rehabilitation therapy appointments

Awards & Recognitions