MARION — The Marion Fire Department was awarded a “Stroke Public Awareness” grant, announced Wednesday April 24.

The grant is part of an initiative to conduct stroke-related public awareness activities within Marion, with a goal of reaching those at higher risk for stroke.

The fire department encourages town residents to attend stroke awareness events, the first being Wednesday, May 1 at the Cushing Community Center. Join community leaders and stakeholders for a walk to promote healthy living and spread stroke awareness messages.

Signs posted along the walking path will inform participants of symptoms, risk factors and ways to decrease the risk of stroke. There will also be music, health screenings and stroke awareness literature.

The second event will be Monday, May 13 prior to Town Meeting. The Marion Fire Department and Board of Health will host a table for individuals to ask questions about stroke risk concerns, signs and symptoms, and preventative lifestyle behaviors.

On Thursday, May 16, the Marion Council on Aging will host a lunch-and-learn event providing attendees with a healthy stroke diet meal. Then, the Board of Health and Marion Fire Department will deliver a presentation educating attendees on the signs and symptoms of stroke, what to do if they suspect a stroke and risk factors associated with stroke.

The final event will be Saturday, June 29 at a “Touch a Truck” event. The Marion Fire Department and the Marion Board of Health will host a table to disseminate stroke education and awareness materials and provide wellness checks. Educational literature, magnets and stroke-awareness water bottles will also be available.

Every event also includes a table for blood pressure and blood sugar screening. Residents presenting with elevated blood pressure will receive automatic blood pressure cuffs to monitor their blood pressure and will be asked to follow up with their primary care physician.

The Marion Fire Department, Board of Health and Council on Aging will also host a weekly 30-minute walk to promote healthy activity and exercise.