Sixteen-year-old Lexi Frederick of the United States has become an advocate for stroke awareness in children after experiencing a stroke at birth. The stroke ultimately led to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy and epilepsy.
Despite the challenges she faces with daily tasks due to right-sided weakness, Frederick has found a passion for participating in beauty pageants and delivering motivational speeches. She uses these platforms to support teenagers with disabilities and raise awareness about childhood stroke.
Frederick has been selected as one of nine finalists for the “Stroke Hero” award presented by the National Stroke Association, with the winner to be announced on May 1, 2026.
Frederick emphasizes that children can also experience strokes, advocating for increased awareness of this condition and encouraging communities to support those affected and help them build self-confidence. Raising awareness is crucial, as childhood stroke can have lasting impacts on development and quality of life.
Stroke in children is a rare occurrence, affecting approximately one in 4,000 newborns, as well as around 2,000 children annually, according to Johns Hopkins University. Potential causes include congenital heart defects, blood-clotting disorders, and vascular diseases.
