Buffalo survivor among 7 stroke advocates recognized nationwide for resilience & community impact

Through Stroke Hero Awards, American Stroke Association highlights powerful stories of stroke survivors & champions.

American Heart Association Press Release

Every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. has a stroke, one of the leading causes of serious, long-term disability. To spotlight the courage and dedication of those impacted by stroke, the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, is honoring seven nationwide recipients through its annual Stroke Hero Awards, including Buffalo-area resident Kathy O’Leary. She won the Voters’ Choice Hero Award.

“I am honored to receive this award and recognize that every other nominee is equally deserving of it,” O’Leary said. “It is my hope that I have raised awareness of the struggles that long-term stroke survivors deal with on a regular basis, and that other stroke survivors will find hope and inspiration to continue their recovery journey.”

The awards celebrate stroke survivors, caregivers, health care professionals and advocates who are advancing awareness, education and support for the stroke community nationwide. Recognized each May, during American Stroke Month, the American Stroke Association honors these Stroke Heroes and proudly advocates for stroke survivors year-round.

Those who have had a stroke often must work against physical, emotional and cognitive changes to move forward. This year’s winners demonstrate how personal experiences can drive public impact – from publishing support guides and launching nonprofits, to advocating in hospitals and local communities.

(Submitted photo)

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After O’Leary suffered a massive stroke and couldn’t find a support group, she created one herself. Now stroke survivors in Buffalo have a place to go for information and support. The physician and mom of two also pointed out to her colleagues that they weren’t preparing patients for life after a stroke. She pushed through depression and serious physical challenges to champion the formation of a task force of medical, mental health and social services professionals to help stroke survivors find a new normal.

Winners were selected by a nationwide panel of volunteer judges from the American Stroke Association, except for the Voters’ Choice Award, which was selected by online popular vote. 

More about the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than 100 years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

More about the American Stroke Association

The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public’s health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and X.