Country music legend Randy Travis, renowned for his chart-topping hits and profound influence on the genre, will be visiting Bend on May 13 to shed light on stroke awareness, recovery and resilience.

Despite facing significant health challenges after a near-fatal stroke, Travis, accompanied by his wife, Mary Travis, continues to educate the public on stroke prevention, rehabilitation and living a meaningful life after stroke.

Travis, who suffered a stroke at the age of 54, underwent intensive brain surgery and now faces life in a wheelchair with impaired speech and singing abilities. However, his resilience and commitment to raising awareness about strokes have not wavered. The event, organized by Stroke Awareness Oregon and presented by Hayden Homes, aims to provide information on recognizing stroke symptoms and supporting survivors post-hospitalization.

“Randy suffered what was an avalanche of health issues in 2013,” Mary Travis explained in a phone interview from their home in Tioga, Texas. “He initially had pneumonia, and his lungs were full of liquid. That accelerated into heart issues and he at one point flatlined. He suffered viral cardiomyopathy. He was in a coma after he was revived, but doctors failed to detect he had had a stroke for three days. In that time, you lose the luxury of using stroke reversal medication. We did not see the signs of a stroke until after he came out of the coma.”

Randy Travis is an advocate of BEFAST, an acronym for recognizing stroke symptoms. The acronym is meant to serve as an aid to look for changes:

• B stands for balance,
• E for eyes,
• F for face,
• A for arm,
• S for speech and
• T for time to call 911.

Despite facing physical and cognitive challenges, Travis dedicates several hours each day to speech and physical therapy, aiming to regain mobility and independence.

The upcoming fireside chat at Westside Church in Bend will cover various aspects of stroke prevention, Travis’ personal journey, and his enduring passion for music.

“We’re really an open book,” Mary Travis remarked, highlighting their willingness to share their experiences with the audience.

With a remarkable career spanning decades, Travis boasts lifetime sales of over 25 million records and numerous accolades, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Despite the setback caused by the stroke, Travis remains active in the music industry, offering guidance to emerging country artists.

The Bend event holds particular significance as May marks Stroke Awareness Month, providing a platform for the Travises to share their insights and advocate for greater stroke preparedness in hospitals nationwide.

While this is not a Randy Travis concert, the evening will begin with opening music from local rock band Soul Benders. The fundraiser will be from 6-10 p.m. May 13 at the Westside Church in Bend. Tickets are $40-$100. For more information and to attend the event, visit www.strokeawarenessoregon.org.

Just The Facts

What is a stroke? Stroke is a “brain attack,” that happens when blood flow is cut off to any area of the brain. This lack of oxygen results in the death of brain cells, leading to all sorts of issues including death and disability. The extent of the damage done largely depends on the size and type of stroke and how quickly they get medical treatment at the hospital.

If You Go

“An evening with Randy and Mary Travis”, May 13 at Westside Church, 2051 NW Shevlin Park Road, Bend, presented by Stroke Awareness Oregon and Hayden Homes. In this fireside chat Mary and Randy will share their story of hope and inspiration following Randy’s 2013 stroke. Doors open at 6 p.m. Event starts at 7 p.m. and concludes at 9 p.m. Opening act is local music group Soul Benders led by Steve Boatright. Tickets are $40 for general admission and $100 for premium seating. Tickets are tax deductible. Purchase tickets online at strokeawarenessoregon.org. Proceeds to benefit SAO.

What does BEFAST mean?

BEFAST is an easy way to remember the signs and symptoms of a stroke. It stands for( B)alance loss;( E)yesight changes; (F)acial drooping; (A)rm weakness; (S)peech difficulties; and (T)ime to call 911.