Three Friends Tackle the Raid Amazones to Raise Stroke Awareness
Driven by a shared passion for adventure and a desire to make a difference, Sarah Panigada, Vanessa Fleury, and Melissa Mouraud-Bierry are gearing up for the grueling Raid Amazones in Sri Lanka. This challenging six-day event, featuring disciplines like mountain biking, canoeing, trail running, and archery, will test their physical and mental limits. But for this trio, known as Raid’hot 2021, the Raid Amazones is about more than just crossing the finish line.
Their journey is deeply personal, fueled by Sarah’s experience as a stroke survivor. Eight years ago,at the age of 28,Sarah faced two strokes,an experience that profoundly impacted her life. Now, she’s using her participation in the Raid Amazones as a platform to raise awareness about stroke prevention and support the France AVC37 association.
“We wanted to challenge ourselves,and we met in Vietnam,” Sarah explains.”We love to laugh and push our boundaries. Participating in the raid Amazones allows us to do all of that while advocating for a cause that’s close to our hearts.”
The team’s commitment to raising stroke awareness extends beyond the race itself. Recently, they organized a public awareness stand at a shopping center in Tours, providing details about stroke prevention and the vital work of France AVC37.
“We chose to support france AVC37 because of my personal experience,” Sarah shares.”Through our challenge, we aim to shed light on the association and collaborate with them on prevention initiatives like this stand.”
France AVC37, a nationwide network of 49 branches covering 84 departments, plays a crucial role in supporting stroke survivors and their families. The association’s mission is twofold: to raise awareness about stroke risks and to connect survivors, providing them with a sense of community and support during challenging times.
“France AVC37 not only educates the public about stroke prevention but also connects survivors with each other,” Sarah emphasizes. “This connection is invaluable, offering reassurance and a sense of belonging during difficult times.”
The statistics surrounding stroke are sobering. Every year, 150,000 people in France experience a stroke, with over 110,000 requiring hospitalization and 30,000 tragically losing their lives. Stroke is the leading cause of acquired disability in adults, leaving over 500,000 French individuals living with its lasting effects.
By participating in the Raid Amazones and championing France AVC37, Sarah, Vanessa, and Melissa are not only pushing their physical limits but also making a powerful statement about the importance of stroke awareness and prevention. Their journey serves as an inspiration, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength, resilience, and the power to make a difference.
Pushing Limits For A Cause: An Interview with Olympic Triathlete, Sophie Benoit
This week, we’re joined by Olympic triathlete Sophie Benoit, who’s tackled some of the world’s toughest endurance races. Sophie, thank you for joining us today.
Sophie: thank you for having me!
Moderator: We’ve been deeply moved by the story of Sarah Panigada, Vanessa Fleury, and Melissa Mouraud-Bierry, who are taking on the Raid amazones in Sri Lanka to raise awareness for stroke prevention. As an athlete who’s faced immense physical challenges, what are your thoughts on their endeavour?
Sophie: It’s truly inspiring.These women are displaying remarkable strength and determination. The Raid Amazones is notoriously demanding, requiring not only physical prowess but also mental resilience. To undertake such a challenge in the name of a cause so vital shows remarkable commitment and courage.
Moderator: You mentioned mental resilience. We certainly know that Sarah is a stroke survivor. How significant is the mental aspect in overcoming a medical challenge like that, especially while training for an extreme physical event?
Sophie: It’s absolutely crucial.
Overcoming a physical health setback like a stroke requires immense mental fortitude. It’s about rebuilding not just your physical strength but also belief in your own capabilities. Training for something as demanding as the Raid Amazones would be a powerful testament to her dedication and a way to reclaim her strength, both physically and mentally.
Moderator: Sarah’s goal is to raise awareness for France AVC37, a national association supporting stroke survivors. Do you think athletes have a duty to use their platform to advocate for social causes?
Moderator: Absolutely. Athletes have a unique ability to inspire and engage people. We see them pushing their limits, achieving the seemingly impossible, and that can resonate deeply with people. By using their platform to shed light on important social issues like stroke awareness, they can make a real difference.
Moderator: The statistics surrounding stroke in France are alarming. over 150,000 people experience strokes annually, and it’s the leading cause of acquired disability. what role do you think awareness campaigns, like Sarah’s, play in combating these alarming numbers?
Sophie: Awareness campaigns are vital. Stroke often strikes without warning, and many people aren’t aware of the risk factors or the importance of quick medical attention. By raising awareness, we can encourage people to make healthier lifestyle choices, recognize the warning signs of a stroke, and seek prompt medical help. This can ultimately save lives and reduce the devastating impact of stroke.
Moderator: Sarah and her team have already organized a public awareness stand. what other innovative ways do you think individuals and organizations can spread the word about stroke prevention?
Sophie: Community events, workshops in schools and workplaces, social media campaigns, collaborations with health professionals – the possibilities are endless.
We need to be creative and reach people where they are. It’s also crucial to share personal stories like Sarah’s, as they can make a connection that statistics alone can’t achieve.
Moderator: Sophie, thank you for sharing your insights. Your perspective as an athlete and advocate for health and well-being is invaluable.
Sophie: It was my pleasure.I encourage everyone to learn more about stroke and support organizations like France AVC37.
Moderator: Now, we want to hear from you. what are your thoughts on the role athletes can play in promoting social causes? Do you have any personal experiences with stroke or know someone who has been affected? Let us know in the comments below!
