University of Utah opens center to support stroke patients and their families
Jun 5, 2025, 4:00 PM
A parking lot and the University of Utah Medical Center in Salt Lake City are pictured on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022. (Jeffrey D. Allred/Deseret News)
(Jeffrey D. Allred/Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY — The University of Utah is opening a new center to help stroke patients and their families.
About 800,000 Americans have a stroke each year, leaving many individuals and families wondering what comes next. The university hopes their new center, called the Center for Quality of Life After A Stroke, will answer the many questions survivors and families have.
Related: Patients in Utah receive fast care for stroke than patients in other states
Associate Professor and center Co-Director Alex Terrill said the goal is to extend support beyond medical facilities and into the community, ensuring stroke patients have the best chance at recovery.
“I think what makes our center really unique is that we focus on life after stroke,” Terrill said. “So, and more specifically, leading full, meaningful life after having a stroke.”
Support for stroke patients and their families
Dr. Steven Edgley, medical director of the stroke rehab program at the Center for Quality of Life After a Stroke, said about 25% of people will experience a stroke in their lifetime.
The new facility aims to assist people at any stage of recovery, offering evidence-based therapies and adaptive programs. Edgley said the center’s goal is to help individuals of all ages maintain a productive quality of life.
“Most people have some deficits,” said Edgley. ” … Some things that they have to overcome and adapt to. That’s where we come in and help people adapt to their new life.”
