Up Front

You say you want a resolution

When we were all young(er) and invincible, we didn’t have much use for New Year’s resolutions, but as the years go by and the pounds and smokes and aches and pains pile up, we suddenly feel the urge to make amends for all of that bad living.

Relax. This, too, will pass. Most New Year’s resolutions, we’re told, last about two or three weeks, tops. Then it’s back to business as usual. All kidding aside, if you’ve vowed to lose weight or to stop smoking, we applaud your efforts and we wish you well. You’re in for a long, tough road, but the final destination is well worth the effort.

Here’s a resolution that anyone can keep: learn the warning signs of stroke such as sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg; sudden confusion or trouble speaking; sudden difficulty walking, dizziness or loss of balance; or sudden severe headaches. According to the American Heart Association (www.americanheart.org), stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in adults. About 600,000 new strokes are reported in the U.S. each year. The good news is that getting treatment within 60 minutes can prevent disability or save a life.

Some resolutions are worth keeping—for you and your loved ones’ sake.