Stroke Awareness
Prevention & Education
The Hilo Benioff Medical Center Stroke Management Program provides evidence-based primary stroke care, including evaluation, treatment, and education to patients who present to HBMC with signs and symptoms of stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA).
Hilo Benioff Medical Center Diagnosed & Treated Stroke Volumes:
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2020: 383 strokes
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2021: 443 strokes
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2022: 422 strokes
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2023: 489 strokes
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2024: To date - 369 strokes
We are well on our way to hitting more than 500 strokes this year!
For more information, please visit:


Stroke Information
01
Stroke is the #1 cause of chronic disability and the #3 cause of death in the state of Hawai'i and the #5 cause of death in the United States.
02
TIME IS BRAIN!
For every minute that blood flow to the brain is blocked, 1.9 million brain cells die.
If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of a stroke, do not drive yourself. Do not wait. Please call 911! Stroke care begins in the ambulance!
03
Know the signs and symptoms of a stroke - BE FAST!
Image Source: https://livinghealthy.hawaii.gov/stroke/
Over
$17,500 raised!
The inaugural Strokes Fore Strokes Golf Tournament was held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at the Volcano Golf Course to celebrate Stroke Awareness Month.
Proceeds will go to promoting stroke awareness, prevention and education by supporting workforce development and critical health care support.
Thank you for sponsoring!
Orchid Isle Ford Dealership
Blue Sky Energy, LLC
Hope Chu-Hing Insurance Agency, Inc.
Hawaiian Electric
First Hawaiian Bank
HFS Federal Credit Union
About the Host
Andrew Iarussi, Stroke Survivor
Three years ago, Andrew Iarussi experienced a transient ischemic attack, or "mini-stroke," while traveling across the country in his RV. After six months of rehabilitation, Iarussi joined a stroke support group, gaining valuable insights into the challenges others face. His journey deepened his gratitude for making a full recovery without lasting side effects.
Strokes are a significant health issue in Hawai'i, with the state experiencing a higher rate of stroke-related deaths than the national average. Native Hawai'ians and Pacific Islanders are particularly vulnerable, highlighting the need for greater awareness and support.
To mark his 3-year stroke anniversary, Iarussi is organizing the “Strokes Fore Strokes” charity golf tournament at Volcano Golf Course on November 4, 2024. This event aims to celebrate recovery and raise funds for the Primary Stroke Center at Hilo Benioff Medical Center. By doing so, Iarussi hopes to help others on their journey to recovery and reduce the impact of strokes in Hawai'i.

Sign up to be a Golf Sponsor today!

