Members of the Life after Stroke Organization of Negros Oriental are encouraging other stroke survivors in Dumaguete City and other parts of the province to join in their efforts for a stronger advocacy.

The new LiASONO officers took their oath on Wednesday at their regular meeting and Christmas party, at the Angelo King building of the Silliman Medical Center complex.

Gov. Emilio Macias II, who led the induction rites, lauded the group for their efforts in promoting education and awareness on stroke, which is one of the country's leading causes of morbidity and mortality.

Macias, a doctor, said he could relate to the LiASONO as his wife is suffering from a type of cerebrovascular disease.

Although it could be debilitating and frustrating for stroke survivors to carry on, considering their limitations, still, "Life does not stop until you're dead", Macias told the LiASONO members.

He pledged to make the Capitol accessible to persons with disabilities by building a ramp for them.

There are currently 25 members of the LiASONO, a group that was formed in 2005 with the objective of reducing the burden of stroke in Negros Oriental by promoting education and supporting research into stroke epidemiology, risk factors, prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Board Member Lea Ga Bromo, the incoming LiASONO president, said their group also aims to promote a culture of care among the public and health professionals, to help stroke survivors and their families adapt to the effects of stroke by providing mutual positive support, and to assist individual members obtain medical and rehabilitative services.

Bromo said that membership is open to stroke survivors, their families, caregivers, health professionals, and anyone with an interest in stroke.

The Sanofi-Aventis Philippines Incorporated and the Silliman University Physical Therapy Program are currently supporting the LiASONO.

With Bromo as officers are Quiterio Peñaflore, vice president; Sr. Mary Clarissa Lusabia, secretary; Odette Manuela Dales, treasurer; and Capt. Victorino de Guzman, Josefina Lestor, and Angelita Cual, members of the Board of Trustrees.

Advisers are Dr. Lynn Olegario, chief of the Silliman University Physical Therapy department, and Dr. Rosalind Yu, a neurologist.*JG

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