When a stroke begins, the brain immediately goes into crisis. With each passing minute, millions of brain cells are at risk. That’s why specialists often say, “time is brain.”

At Richmond University Medical Center, stroke patients are met with rapid evaluation, advanced imaging, and around-the-clock neurological expertise – care that can dramatically change outcomes and preserve quality of life.

But what happens after the emergency? What does stroke treatment really look like behind the hospital doors? And what should patients and families realistically expect during recovery?

Chief of department of Neurology, medical director of RUMC stroke, and immediate past president of New York State Neurological Society, Dr. Allan Perel, joins host, Meredith Gaskins, again to walk us through what happens minute by minute during a stroke, how fast treatment can make a life-changing difference, and what recovery truly looks like – from rehabilitation to regaining independence. At RUMC, patients also have access to the only stroke support group on Staten Island, which brings survivors and caregivers together to share experiences, ask questions, and support one another through recovery.

This is an essential conversation for patients, caregivers, and anyone who wants to be prepared – because when it comes to stroke, knowing what to do can make all the difference.

When most people imagine a stroke, they picture something sudden and dramatic. But the truth is some strokes don’t arrive with obvious warning signs, and some happen silently – causing damage long before a person even realizes what’s happening.

Even more surprising? Stroke is no longer just a concern for older adults. We’re seeing more cases in younger, seemingly healthy people – and too often, the early signs are missed or dismissed.

At Richmond University Medical Center, patients have access to advanced, rapid-response stroke care, specialized neurology teams, and lifesaving treatments designed to protect the brain when every minute counts.

Joining host, Meredith Gaskins, is chief of the department of Neurology and the medical director of RUMC’s stroke center, Dr. Allan Perel. Dr. Perel is also the immediate past president of the New York State Neurological Society. He’s here to help us understand the strokes you don’t see coming – what symptoms people ignore, why age doesn’t always protect us, and what everyone should know to act quickly and protect their brain health.

This is a conversation you’ll want to hear – and share.

On this episode, we’re diving into a topic that affects us all – healthy brain aging. Our brains change as we age, but the good news is that there are many ways we can protect and support cognitive function throughout our lives. Joining host, Meredith Gaskins, is Danielle Geraldi-Samara, MD – someone who has dedicated her career to helping our community maintain lifelong brain health. Dr. Samara breaks down the key habits that support lifelong brain function, including nutrition, movement, social interaction, sleep, and mental stimulation. We also explore the factors that can negatively impact our brain over time and discuss the early signs of cognitive impairment that families should look out for. Whether you’re looking to boost your own brain health or support a loved one, this episode offers practical guidance, compassionate insights, and clear steps for staying mentally strong at every age. Tune in to learn how to stay sharp, stay connected, and age well – from the inside out.