The Stroke Alliance for Europe (SAFE) is a coalition of over 30 European SSOs that campaign to improve stroke care and support across Europe. SAFE is also involved in stroke research projects to develop new treatments and ways to prevent the devastation of stroke. Since 2016, SAFE has partnered with the healthcare company Merz to enable resources to be allocated to the Post Stroke Spasticity Project. The goal of this project is to empower stroke survivors and raise awareness of post stroke spasticity treatment options.

This partnership is founded on the principles of meaningful patient engagement, openness and trust. The two partners have identified a shared educational space that adheres to industry regulations.
This project aims to ensure that stroke survivors and carers receive accurate and accessible information about the post stroke spasticity treatment options available to them. The four areas of activity are: establishment and consultation with a patient advisory board; collecting and disseminating FAQs; engaging patient ambassadors in project promotion; and developing and sharing motivational messages from stroke survivors and carers. 

This presentation will outline the outcomes to date as a result of the project, and lessons learned from an SSO and healthcare company partnership, which includes the meaningful participation of stroke survivors and carers. It will also raise awareness of the Life with Spasticity website as a resource for stroke survivors and carers.

CREATING AN EDUCATIONAL SPACE TO RAISE AWARENESS OF POST STROKE SPASTICITY TREATMENT OPTIONS THROUGH A STROKE SUPPORT ORGANIZATION AND HEALTHCARE COMPANY COLLABORATION