BRIDGEPORT, CT,  May 10, 2007 - "How Diet Can Reduce Stroke Risk" will be presented by the St. Vincent's Stroke Survivors and Caregivers Support Group  on  Wednesday, May 16 from  6:30-8:00pm in the Seton Room on Level "C" of the Medical Center.. 

Featured speaker will be Anne Lundstrom, RD, a registered dietitian, who will discuss how to reduce the risk of stroke by incorporating healthy foods and making other changes to your diet. Lundstrom, a registered dietitian at St. Vincent's Medical Center for more than fourteen years, has nutrition expertise in a variety of areas including stroke, bariatrics,  rehabilitation and medical and surgical care. Lundstrom participated on the task force that ultimately led to St. Vincent's being named a Primary Stroke Center by JCAHO. She is a member of the American Dietetic Association, the Connecticut Dietetic Association and is a certified nutritionist with the State of Connecticut.   

The Stroke Survivors and Caregivers Support Group addresses the concerns and needs of stroke survivors and their caregivers. It also provides an opportunity for participants to interact with others for emotional support as well as to share strategies and techniques to improve their quality of life.  

Speech, occupational, and physical therapists as well as neurologists and social workers are also available to provide information and links to services in the community. The group is sponsored by St. Vincent's Department of Social Work and the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 

There is no charge for attendance at the group. Parking is free with validated ticket. 

For more information, please call occupational therapist Melissa Kopp at 203-576-5361 or social worker Helen Polewoj at 203-576-5608.