Stroke Bill Signed by Governor Quinn TODAY!!!

We just received word that Governor Pat Quinn signed House Bill 2244 into law earlier this morning. This law provides for designation of Primary Stroke Centers by the Illinois Department of Public Health and significantly advances the process of dramatically improving stroke care and reducing death and disability throughout the state of Illinois.

Follow the link below to thank Governor Quinn for signing our stroke bill into law:
Thank Governor Quinn for Signing the Stroke Bill!

Culminating over four years of effort by countless stroke survivors, volunteers and staff of the American Stroke Association as well as health care providers and other stakeholders, this was a true team effort. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to this effort for always keeping the best interests of the patient first and foremost.

There are three people who deserve a special mention. First, our chief legislative sponsors, State. Representative Bob Biggins, a stroke survivor, and State Senator Heather Steans, provided the leadership, commitment and legislative muscle needed to advance such a complex and far-reaching bill through the legislative process. We could not have done this without their passionate support. Also, kudos and thanks to Brittan Bolin. In her capacity as our Springfield lobbyist, she is the team quarterback. Much of our legislative progress can be attributed to Brittan’s tireless legwork, wise council and steady leadership.

Thousands of emails, letters, phone calls and legislative visits went into this victory. On behalf of the American Heart Association and its division, the American Stroke Association, thank you everyone for your advocacy and for your continued support!!!