Westport Stroke Survivor Empowerment Event

In honor of National Stroke Awareness Month, a powerful community event is taking over Westport Middle/High School.

On Saturday, May 3rd, the Heart Health - Stroke Prevention Extravaganza, presented by Southcoast Health, is more than just a health fair, it’s a heartfelt tribute to resilience, recovery, and the unsung heroes who make survival stories possible.

At the center of this movement is Lisa Feitelberg-Costa, a Westport resident and former corporate professional whose life was changed by a massive stroke in 2020.

Despite leading a healthy lifestyle, she suffered a near-fatal ischemic stroke caused by a 99% blockage in her carotid artery. Thanks to swift action by EMS, expert care at Charlton Memorial Hospital, and a complex surgery led by Dr. Richard Pin, Lisa survived, and began the long road to recovery.

That journey led to something even bigger.

READ MORE: Remembering the Time St. Lukes and Southcoast Health Saved Gazelle's Life

Stroke Buddies & Friends

In 2024, Lisa founded Stroke Buddies & Friends, a peer-to-peer support group based out of the Westport Council on Aging. Unlike traditional support programs led by medical professionals, this group is run entirely by people who have lived through their own health crises. What began with just two members has grown into a network of nearly 160 participants from across the Southeast region of Massachusetts.

“Our strength comes from walking in each other’s shoes,” Lisa shared. “We’ve all faced setbacks, we’ve all had to grieve who we used to be and we’re embracing our new normal together.”

The group recently earned national recognition from the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association as one of the first disability-led stroke support groups in the country.

May 3rd: A Day of Education, Celebration & Connection

The Heart Health - Stroke Prevention Extravaganza runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Westport Middle/High School (400 Old County Road) and there's something for everyone. From free health screenings and stroke prevention tips to heart-themed cupcakes made by Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech students, the day is packed with hands-on learning and community fun.

Outside, weather permitting, kids and families can enjoy a Touch-A-Truck experience, giving a rare chance to explore police cruisers, fire engines, and ambulances. Inside, the school’s auditorium and cafeteria will host medical experts, presentations, and networking for those affected by stroke, heart conditions, and other life-changing diagnoses.

Lisa’s Goal

She promises to honor the people who saved her life (EMS, doctors, therapists) and to empower others who might be walking a similar path.

“Too often, first responders never get to see the lives they’ve helped save, years down the line,” she said. “This event is our way of saying thank you—and to show stroke survivors that they’re not alone.”

Community Support, One Heartbeat at a Time

In addition to Southcoast Health’s sponsorship, the event is receiving support from local police and fire departments, the Massachusetts State Police, and numerous area businesses. The culinary program at Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech donated over 300 heart-shaped cookies and cupcakes decorated with EKG lines—a sweet tribute to the cause.

Admission is completely free, and all are welcome.

Whether you're a stroke survivor, a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply a neighbor looking to learn more and show support, the Heart Health - Stroke Prevention Extravaganza is a day to connect, reflect, and celebrate the strength of our SouthCoast community.