by Harry Hall

This feature is a continuation of the Front of the Pack article on Pamela Crim in the March 2003 issue of Runner Triathlete News. To get the "rest of the story" on Crim, please read the Front of the Pack article in that issue.

According to the Stroke Association webpage, an American suffers a stroke every 53 seconds, affecting more than 600,000 and killing 160,000-60% of whom are women. Stroke is the nation's number three killer and number one in terms of long-term disability. There are two type of strokes: ischemic occurs when an obstruction, usually a blood clot, cuts off circulation to the brain. This accounts for 83% of all strokes, including Pamela Crim's. The other 17% are attributed to hemorrhagic stroke, caused by a weakened blood vessel that ruptures in the brain.

Symptoms of stroke include: Weakness-especially in an extremity or face, dizziness, inability to speak, and blurred vision. Although stroke doesn't discriminate, certain risk factors, such as age, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, diabetes and family history can increase one's chances for getting a stroke.

These symptoms should be addressed by calling 911 or a physician immediately.

For more information about stroke or the TTES marathon training program check www.strokeassociation.org.