A group of somber Loyola students watched as a red balloon floated away. This symbolic release of pain and grief concluded the Stroke Awareness event held by Phi Sigma Sigma and Sigma Chi on February 24 in Loyola University Chicago’s CFSU.
The goals were:
- to honor the memory of Emily Johnson, who died this past December
- to increase awareness of strokes
- and raise money for Rush Medical Center’s Neurology Department.
Emily was a sophomore communication major at Loyola and a member of Phi Sigma Sigma sorority. She unexpectedly died from a stroke at Rush Medical Center at the age of 19.
“The main aim of this event is to spread stroke awareness across Loyola’s campus,” said Natalie Lee, the philanthropy chair of Phi Sigma Sigma and organizer of the event.
There was a poster displaying pictures of Emily along with pamphlets detailing information about stroke prevention and warning signs. Pete’s Pizza and Chick-fil-A donated sweets, pizza, and calendars to Phi Sigma Sigma. These items were sold during the event to raise additional money for Rush Medical Center.
According to the National Stroke Association, strokes are the third leading cause of deaths in America.
“When I think of strokes I don’t think of a 19 year old girl passing away,” said Ashely Mallek of Phi Sigma Sigma.
A 2011 study conducted by Duke University showed that 5-10% of strokes occurred in teens and young adults.
“People are especially surprised because it happened to such a young person,” said 19-year-old Signe Steiner.
Most attendants remembered Emily as a polite, upbeat and optimistic pledge and reminisced of their time with her.
“Emily was everything Phi Sigma Sigma represents: a leader, a overachiever, and a passionate young woman. She was one of the most humble and loving people I have ever met,” stated Natalie Lee
Over 200 people attended the event throughout the day. Phi Sigma Sigma plans to do a similar event next year in memory of Emily Johnson.