Goodyear Mayor Lord admitted to Barrow following mini-stroke

GOODYEAR, AZ - Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord was admitted to Barrow Neurological Institute Tuesday night after suffering from a TIA, or a transient ischemic attack.

Goodyear spokeswoman Nora Fascenelli said the TIA, sometimes called a mini-stroke, occurred Monday evening during a council meeting.

Mayor Lord felt poorly, excused herself, and was taken to West Valley Hospital in Goodyear, where doctors performed an MRI and other tests.

A TIA is an event causing reduced blood flow to the brain and is often a warning sign that a true stroke may occur in the near future, according to Fascenelli.

West Valley Hospital officials suggested that Mayor Lord be transferred to Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital for a procedure to open a blocked carotid artery. Officials say this is a routine procedure with a quick recovery time, usually less than three weeks.

Before leaving West Valley Hospital Tuesday night, Mayor Lord was in good spirits. Officials say her speech, coordination and attitude were normal.

“I want everyone to know how important it is to take these kinds of symptoms seriously,” said Mayor Georgia Lord. “They are warning signs – a real red flag that should not be ignored. Taking action right away can literally save your life!”

Symptoms of mini-strokes, or TIAs, can include dizziness, confusion, and trouble reading, writing, walking, talking or understanding what others are saying. They can come on suddenly and can last just a few minutes or as long as an hour or so.

Unlike an actual stroke, a TIA does not cause brain tissue to die, but blood clots are common and if untreated can be very dangerous.

Vice Mayor Joanne Osborne will serve as acting mayor until Mayor Lord has recovered fully and is ready to return, hopefully within the next three to four weeks.