The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, has announced the seven recipients of the 2026 Stroke Hero Awards, honoring survivors, caregivers, health care professionals, and community organizations whose actions are redefining what life after stroke can look like. Recognized each May during American Stroke Month, the awards spotlight real-world efforts that help survivors and caregivers navigate recovery through connection, education, and shared experience.
Stroke is a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the U.S., and for many survivors and families, the hard work begins once the hospital stay ends. Life after a stroke often means navigating lasting physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges (www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/effects-of-stroke). This year's Stroke Heroes show how personal experience can become a source of strength for others.
The winners include Felicia Veasey of Summerville, South Carolina, honored as Caregiver Hero. After her mother's second stroke, Felicia rearranged her life to become her mother's full-time caregiver, leading to significant health improvements. She also coordinated Empowered Minds and Hearts, a public webinar exploring caregiver mental health and well-being.
Lamont Causey of Detroit, named Community Impact Hero, suffered a stroke in 2019 that left him unable to speak, swallow, or walk. Through commitment and resilience, he regained function and now shares his story in under-resourced communities to educate and support other survivors and caregivers.
Nasheel Joules of McKinney, Texas, is recognized as the B.E. F.A.S.T. Hero for acting quickly when her husband Mark struggled to speak. She called 911, and doctors confirmed a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Nasheel and Mark now raise funds for the Association through their annual Christmas light display and work with local officials to support rapid emergency response.
The Aphasia Recovery Connection of Leland, North Carolina, receives the Group Hero award. This nonprofit connects people with aphasia—difficulty speaking, reading, or writing after brain injury—to a supportive community, offering free support and education to over 20,000 members regardless of geography or financial means.
Marina Ganetsky of Needham, Massachusetts, is the Pediatric Hero. At age 10, she suffered a ruptured AVM causing multiple strokes. Now 15, she has made tremendous progress, speaks at national conferences, and wrote a book for children facing strokes and brain injuries.
Gabriela Raso of Missouri City, Texas, named Survivor Hero, experienced an ischemic stroke on Christmas 2013. As a physician, she insisted on a CT scan after ER doctors wanted to send her home, saving her life. She co-founded The Stroke Foundation to advocate for expanded access to therapies and resources.
Stacie Barber of Peoria, Arizona, won the Voters' Choice Hero award. After her husband Logan suffered a large bleeding stroke in September 2024, Stacie's caregiving, guided by her professional knowledge as a physical therapist, fueled his strong recovery. 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. For more information, visit Stroke.org/HeroAwards.
