Kenneth Lidge, 63, was on a flight from Tampa back to the Niagara Falls Airport on December 19th.
Officials say minutes before landing an Allegiant Airlines flight attendant saw the signs of a stroke.
Lidge was traveling alone.
The flight attendant notified emergency teams to meet the plane on arrival and Lidge was immediately transported to Mount St. Marys Hospital, which is a New York State designated stroke center and fortunately minutes from the airport.
Doctors say the "time-to-treatment" is critical and the stroke team was waiting in the ER when Lidge arrived.
Doctors confirmed he was having a stroke and was given a drug that helps restore blood flow to the brain. If administered within three-to-four hours of the first symptoms it can help prevent death or permanent disability.
"I can't tell you how great it is to be able to see your angels, but I'm looking at them."
Lidge's story is an important reminder of knowing the warning signs of a stroke and responding quickly.
Doctors say to remember the acronym F.A.S.T. to spot the signs of a stroke and know when to call 9-1-1:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call 9-1-1.
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