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In December 2016, Tranicia Hankins, an 18-year Army veteran, experienced a stroke while on a family vacation in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The stroke was caused by an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), which is a rupture of a cluster of blood vessels in the brain. Recalling the incident, Hankins said, "At that point, I was super healthy. To have a stroke was not something that was expected. I wouldn't wish it on anybody."
Hankins, having moved to Indiana from Cleveland after her last deployment, sought support and found the Franciscan Health Stroke Support Group. The group, which meets monthly, provided a community and family-like atmosphere that helped her gain a better understanding of her situation post-stroke.
Through the support group, Hankins learned about the annual stroke camp hosted by Franciscan Health for over 20 years. This year, the camp will take place from July 11-13 at the Higher Ground Conference & Retreat Center in West Harrison, Indiana. "Each stroke camp, I feel like I learn something different about myself and about the people around me," Hankins said. The camp promises a relaxing and educational environment, with activities such as crafts, games, and socialization events.
The setting for the camp is designed for both survivors and caregivers, emphasizing a laid-back atmosphere for education, relaxation, and entertainment. Hankins encourages participation, stating, "I would tell a survivor or a caregiver that would like to attend stroke camp that it's good to give each other a break."
The mission of the stroke camp is to enhance the quality of life for stroke survivors, caregivers, and their families. The Franciscan Stroke Camp is unique as the only stroke camp in Indiana, celebrating its 21st year in 2025. The cost to attend the camp is $150 per person, but scholarship opportunities are available through the United Stroke Alliance.
Hankins expressed gratitude to those sponsoring the camp: "I want to say to the people who sponsor stroke camp, that it's one of the greatest things for me." She appreciates the environment it provides, allowing her to belong and gain new insights each year. Hankins thanked Franciscan Health for continuing to sponsor the event.
For more information on the stroke camp, interested individuals can contact Laura Williams at Laura.Williams2@FranciscanAlliance.org. The camp is organized by the Franciscan Health Stroke Center, the Franciscan Health Foundation, and Franciscan Rehabilitation Services, with additional sponsorship from Uplift Johnson County and Medtronic. Registration is open, but space is limited.
