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Iowa Barber's Second Chance Saves Lives with Free BP Checks
28 May
Summary
- Barber Craig Hunt survived a stroke at 39, forcing him to relearn his trade.
- He partnered with the American Heart Association to launch Blood Pressures in Barbershops.
- Over 80 Iowa barbershops now offer free blood pressure screenings to clients.
In 2016, Craig Hunt, then 39, experienced a stroke just a week after his son's birth. Despite leading an active lifestyle, he had stopped taking his high blood pressure medication, a decision that nearly cost him his life. The stroke left him with reduced sensation on his left side, forcing him to adapt and re-learn barbering skills with his right hand.
He described his recovery as a 'reverse tornado,' focused on building up his community. This philosophy led to a powerful initiative launched in 2022 in partnership with the American Heart Association of Iowa. The program, "Blood Pressures in Barbershops," brings nurses into local barbershops.
These professionals offer free blood pressure checks to clients receiving haircuts. Currently, over 80 barbershops in Iowa participate in this vital community health service. This initiative aims to educate the public about stroke risks and prevention, emphasizing that such events can affect anyone.
