John McNeil, a driving force for stroke programs in the Western States Affiliate, passed away on Jan. 4, 2012, in Las Vegas, NV. It is a cruel irony that John lost his life to stroke. John was a man who was committed to educating the public regarding prevention and warning signs of stroke, improving stroke treatment and easing the suffering of stroke survivors (in John’s terminology… stroke victors). Every day, John worked with hospitals, community partners, victors, families and volunteers. He cared deeply about people and wanted them to enjoy healthy lives.

Over his 40-year career with the American Heart Association John was a mentor to hundreds of volunteers, inspiring them with his dedication and drive. For the past 10 years, he was Director of Community Heart and Stroke Program for our Las Vegas division, where he had served as executive director for many years before “retiring.” John began working for the American Heart Association in Maine, where he grew up. He later transferred to Florida before eventually heading west.

John’s passion for promoting stroke prevention, warning signs and treatment was rooted in his personal experience. When he was a young man, his brother had a stroke. They were very close and John spent a great deal of time as his caretaker. The same spirit that led him to care for his brother was always reflected in his work at the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.

John knew that he wanted to forever be a part of helping others and his friends in the Western States Affiliate are carrying his legacy forward through our stroke outreach and education programs. Pictured below is a Las Vegas billboard honoring his memory.