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A resolution recognizing the life-saving actions of certain Metro personnel and highlighting the importance of recognizing the signs of stroke.
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WHEREAS, on May 4, 2021, Criminal Court Judge Cheryl Blackburn experienced a life-threatening emergency while at work in the Justice A.A. Burch Building; and
WHEREAS, when Judge Blackburn started exhibiting signs of stroke, she was luckily in the company of Criminal Court Judge Angelita Blackshear Dalton who immediately recognized the symptoms of stroke and was able get medical attention very quickly; and
WHEREAS, Metro first responders swiftly sprang into action upon arrival and communicated crucial health information to Vanderbilt's emergency department so they could be ready upon Judge Blackburn's arrival; and
WHEREAS, Vanderbilt doctors quickly identified an occlusion and performed a successful thrombectomy allowing Judge Blackburn to make a full recovery without complications; and
WHEREAS, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) credited Metro first responders' swift actions and immediate stroke recognition for Judge Blackburn's positive outcome and smooth recovery; and
WHEREAS, VUMC awarded Metro Paramedic Jesse Gullett and Metro EMT Patrick Lee with an Excellence in Stroke Care Pin for their incredible recognition and expedited transport to a comprehensive stroke center; and
WHEREAS, during a stroke, every minute counts and fast treatment can lessen the brain damage that stroke can cause; and
WHEREAS, signs of stroke include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body, sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech, sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination, and sudden severe headache with no known cause; and
WHEREAS, the most effective stroke treatments are available only if the stroke is recognized and diagnosed within three hours of the first symptoms;...
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