When proud Kamilaroi man, Darren Leonard, first heard about the Eurobodalla Stroke Screening Clinic, he was intrigued. That decision not only led the Batemans Bay local to sign up to the clinic - it inspired him to join Southern as an Aboriginal Health Worker.
"I found out I’ve got a few of those conditions that can lead to stroke," Darren said. “It gave me a bit of a scare to realise it could happen to me."
The Stroke Screening Clinic - launched by Transitional Stroke Nurse Practitioner at Southern NSW Local Health District, Kristine Caprecho, in partnership with the Aboriginal Health team - is the first of its kind in the state.
Designed for Aboriginal men aged 30 and over, particularly those with cardiovascular risk factors, the monthly clinic offers free, culturally safe health checks - including ECGs (electrocardiograms), blood pressure, and blood glucose testing. The goal: catch stroke risks early and connect men to GPs for ongoing care.
For Darren, the Stroke Screening Clinic was a turning point. "It’s about living longer and closing that health gap - not just for me, but for the community and the next generation.
“The clinic gave me the information and support I needed to start making changes," the 44-year-old said.
“And the follow-ups were a major thing. Having a culturally safe space, provided by the Aboriginal Health team, and the follow-up from the nurse three months later, done in a really respectful way - it made me feel comfortable and empowered."
The Stroke Screening Clinic was created in response to data showing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are up to 2.3 times more likely to suffer a stroke at a younger age - and are also less likely to seek help early.
"Many men don’t talk about pain or go to the doctor," said Kellyann Johnson, District Manager for Aboriginal Health and member of the Stroke Steering Committee.
"I’ve lost three brothers younger than me. I’m passionate about helping men grow into strong role models for their families.
Kellyann Johnson We need to change the narrative that men should stay silent about their health and should support men and say, 'it’s okay, that you’re not okay'.
Kellyann Johnson
"Opening access to services like the pre-stroke clinic - and making them culturally safe and welcoming - is a crucial step in making care a normal part of life for men."
With over 13 years of stroke experience, Kristine said the clinic is about small but powerful interventions.
"This is prevention in action. We’re identifying risk factors before stroke happens - before lives are changed forever."
"Some of the main risk factors for stroke are diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, and lifestyle."
Feedback from participants of the clinic has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the clarity, sensitivity and educational value of the experience as well as the culturally safe environment.
"Kristine made me feel really comfortable," Darren said.
"From that first clinic to now, I’ve gathered all the information I need to live a healthier life, I know where the supports are, and I can access them.
"And it’s helped me stick to the lifestyle changes I’ve made, so the clinic has given me a clear advantage and my next doctor’s appointment is already booked."
Darren had this final message for other Indigenous men.
Darren Leonard Getting a health check can be scary but be open to coming in - you may not like everything you hear, but it will help you make an informed decision about your health.
Darren Leonard
The team now hopes to expand the clinic model into a broader men’s health service and roll it out to other communities across Southern.
"We want to empower Aboriginal men to take control of their health," said Kellyann.
"If our men are well, our communities are strong."
Kristine wrapped up the conversation with a clear message: the best thing people in the community can do to recognise the early signs of stroke is to remember B.E.F.A.S.T. - Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time - because recognising symptoms early can save lives.
To access the clinic, contact our Central Intake service, or speak with your Aboriginal Health Worker.