Ohio Valley stroke caregiver honored as finalist for national Stroke Hero Award

ST. CLAIRSVILLE, OHIO, March 12, 2026 ­— An Ohio Valley area WesBanco manager is in the running for a national honor as a finalist for the American Stroke Association’s 2026 Stroke Hero Awards. With someone in the U.S. experiencing a stroke every 40 seconds, often facing lasting physical, emotional and cognitive challenges, the program recognizes individuals making a meaningful difference for people affected by stroke.

John Rataiczak is one of just nine finalists nationwide for the coveted “Voters’ Choice Hero” award, which recognizes individuals making a difference in stroke awareness, prevention or recovery.

The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, honors individuals and groups in the stroke community across the U.S. who have shown resilience, leadership and outstanding impact within the stroke community through its annual Stroke Hero Awards program.

Selected from more than 300 nominations nationwide, Rataiczak is named a candidate for the “Voters’ Choice Hero” award, chosen from outstanding candidates across the Stroke Hero Award categories.

The public can cast votes now through March 18 at Stroke.org/HeroVote. Winners will be announced on May 1, 2026, during American Stroke Month.

When his wife, Melissa, showed F.A.S.T. signs — facial drooping, arm weakness and slurred speech — at a picnic, John Rataiczak acted fast. Drawing on 30 years of American Heart Association volunteerism, he recognized the signs of a stroke and rushed her to the hospital. That speed helped ensure timely, lifesaving care and a strong recovery. John was prepared and steady; he was the hero Melissa needed when every second counted. Now, the couple shares their story through outreach, reminding others that knowing the warning signs changes lives.

Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke[1], according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics. Survivors of stroke often face physical, emotional and cognitive challenges that require tremendous strength, support and access to resources to overcome.

“It's so important for every single person to know the signs of a stroke, as with a stroke, time is of the essence. With a stroke, every single second damages 32,000 brain cells. The faster you can receive qualified medical attention, the better your chances of survival and of a life that you've always wanted. We are taking this opportunity to make sure everybody is aware of these symptoms” said Ratiaczak.

For more information, visit Stroke.org/HeroAwards.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

About the American Stroke Association
The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public’s health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and X.

For Media Inquiries:
Kevin Pauley – kevin.pauley@heart.org