UMC hosts free stroke survivor summit Saturday

University Medical Center of El Paso will host a free stroke survivor summit Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Starlight Event Center, 6650 Continental Dr., according to KVIA.

The event is open to the public and designed as a day of expert education for stroke survivors, caregivers, and others interested in stroke care and recovery. UMC said attendees can register for a spot through a website the hospital provided.

Stroke survivors will share their personal recovery stories at the summit. Carla Escobar from UMC said the personal accounts should inspire attendees. "I think each testimonial will be an inspiration to all of our guests because each experience is unique," Escobar said, according to KVIA. Escobar noted that sharing survivor experiences may help other stroke survivors and their caregivers navigate their own recovery journeys.

UMC treats more than 700 stroke patients, according to the hospital. Strokes are a disabling condition that can cause long-term impairments requiring years of recovery.

Beyond the Saturday summit, UMC said it operates a mobile stroke unit and offers monthly support groups for stroke survivors and caregivers seeking ongoing assistance.