Katie’s life-saving message after stroke at the age of 25

Christmas Eve 2023 is a day Brisbane woman, Katie Trembath, will never forget. The then 25-year-old knew something was not right when she started feeling unusual symptoms.

“I could feel and hear a buzzing in my head and, a few seconds later, the left side of my body went numb. At that point I knew I had to get help straight away.”

Suspecting a stroke, Katie told her brother to call an ambulance immediately. She was taken to hospital where it was confirmed she had a stroke, and she was given clot-busting drugs.

“Everyone, including some medical professionals, was surprised because I was so young and healthy.”

Katie spent three weeks in hospital doing rehabilitation, where she had to learn how to walk again and regain movement in her left hand. Her plans to move to England were put on hold, just one month before she was due to leave.

“Just like that, at the age of 25, my life changed without any warning but since my care was so fast and I had the best possible chance of recovery, my deficits have not stopped me from doing the things I’ve wanted to do, I have just had to change my approach. “

Katie is among the one in four Australians under the age of 65 who had a stroke in 2023 and is encouraging all Australians to learn the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke, no matter their age.

“Knowing the signs helped me get the treatment I needed as quickly as possible. I was very lucky my brother was there to help me that night,” Katie said.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Dr Lisa Murphy, says stroke can strike anyone at any time.

“Stroke doesn’t discriminate- it affects people of all ages which is why it’s important for all Australians to know the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke.”

“ When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells per minute so it is critical to receive emergency treatment as soon as possible. The first important step is recognising the signs of stroke. Knowing the signs can save a life,” Dr Murphy said.

“My dad saved my life by acting so fast, despite me being collapsed in shorts with no undies (still can’t believe that). He called the ambulance, stayed calm, and got me the help I needed,” said Steven.

National Stroke Week runs from August 4-10.

About National Stroke Week

National Stroke Week runs from 4–10 August 2025 and is Stroke Foundation’s annual campaign to raise awareness of stroke and its signs, while encouraging action that can save lives.
This year’s theme, "know the signs and you could save a life", encourages Australians to learn the F.A.S.T. acronym:

Face – Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?

Arms – Can they lift both arms?

Speech – Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?

Time – Is critical. If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.

Stroke Week also raises critical funds to support stroke prevention, research, recovery programs and advocacy efforts. To find out more or get involved, visit www.strokefoundation.org.au.

National Stroke Week 2025 is proudly supported by:

Major Sponsors:		Supporting Sponsor: