The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, has named seven Stroke Heroes for 2026, recognizing individuals and organizations that are reshaping what life after stroke can look like. The awards, announced during American Stroke Month, honor survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and community groups whose efforts help others navigate the physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges that often follow a stroke.
Stroke remains a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States, and the journey to recovery extends far beyond the hospital stay. This year's honorees demonstrate how personal experience can be transformed into a source of strength for others, whether through direct caregiving, public advocacy, or building supportive communities.
The Caregiver Hero award went to Felicia Veasey of Summerville, South Carolina, who became her mother's full-time caregiver after a second stroke. Despite the intense demands, her care has spurred significant improvements in her mother's health. Veasey also organized a public webinar, Empowered Minds and Hearts, to explore the mental health and well-being of caregivers, extending her support to others in similar situations.
Lamont Causey of Detroit, the Community Impact Hero, suffered a stroke in 2019 that left him unable to speak, swallow, or walk. Through determination and resilience, he regained his function and mobility. He now shares his story throughout his community, with a particular focus on helping struggling individuals in under-resourced areas, to educate and encourage survivors and their caregivers.
Nasheel Joules of McKinney, Texas, was named the B.E. F.A.S.T. Hero after she recognized the signs of a transient ischemic attack (TIA) in her husband, Mark. By calling 911 immediately, she ensured he received prompt evaluation, helping protect his long-term health. The couple continues to raise funds for the Association through their annual Christmas light display and works with local officials to support rapid emergency response for medical emergencies like stroke.
The Group Hero award was presented to The Aphasia Recovery Connection in Leland, North Carolina. The nonprofit serves over 20,000 members and community subscribers, offering free aphasia support and education to people who have difficulty speaking, reading, or writing after a brain injury, often from a stroke. The organization aims to reduce isolation and provide a supportive community regardless of geography or financial means.
Marina Ganetsky of Needham, Massachusetts, received the Pediatric Hero award. At age 10, she suffered a ruptured arteriovenous malformation (AVM) that caused multiple strokes. Now 15, she has made tremendous progress and speaks at national conferences about her experience. She has also written a book for children facing strokes and other brain injuries.
Gabriela Raso of Missouri City, Texas, was honored as the Survivor Hero. After experiencing an ischemic stroke on Christmas 2013, she insisted on a CT scan that confirmed the stroke, despite initial dismissal by ER doctors. As a physician herself, she now advocates for other patients and co-founded The Stroke Foundation, which works to expand access to therapies, resources, and support for stroke recovery.
The Voters' Choice Hero award went to Stacie Barber of Peoria, Arizona. A physical therapist and business owner, she refused to accept dire predictions after her husband Logan suffered a large bleeding stroke in September 2024. Her caregiving, guided by professional knowledge, fueled his strong recovery, including his return to full-time work. She shares their journey with over 1 million social media followers, inspiring and educating others.
Winners were selected by a nationwide panel of volunteer judges from the American Stroke Association, except for the Voters' Choice Award, which was determined by online popular vote. The awards highlight the many ways individuals and communities support survivors and caregivers through connection, advocacy, and shared experiences. For more information on the Stroke Hero Awards, visit Stroke.org/HeroAwards.
