"They saved my life": Stroke prevention nurses uncover life-threatening condition during college health check
29.07.2025
A routine blood pressure check carried out by a stroke prevention nurse at Coleg Llandrillo, Rhyl last year, has been credited with saving the life of a public services lecturer and programme leader from Grwp Llandrillo Menai– after dangerously high readings revealed she was living with an undiagnosed kidney disease.
Cara Baker, 38, from Flintshire, was attending the college’s wellbeing event last year when she was approached by a Stroke Prevention Nurse, as part of a wider education and awareness programme being delivered across North Wales. Although she had no intention of having her blood pressure checked, she agreed to sit down for a quick reading.
What followed was life-changing.
“I felt fine – just a little tired and stressed, but the nurse took three readings, then checked it again manually. She asked if I was experiencing any headaches or blurred vision, which I had, but I assumed it was just burnout from a busy year at work.” She explained.
Community Stroke prevention nurse, Emma Davies recalls being immediately concerned, and advised Cara to go to A&E. Still unsure, Cara phoned her GP for a second opinion. He confirmed the urgency and told her to get to hospital without delay.
“I remember it so clearly. Her blood pressure was 228/147. I had to check it multiple times because it was so high. You don’t expect to see numbers like that in someone who looks young, fit, and well. She didn’t have any obvious symptoms apart from feeling a bit run down, but the reading told us something was seriously wrong. I knew she needed urgent care, and fast” Emma said.
Cara was admitted and underwent a series of tests over several days, where she was diagnosed with kidney disease caused by prolonged, undiagnosed high blood pressure.
“I was told that without urgent intervention, I had an 80% chance of dying within the year.
“I was stunned. I had no idea my blood pressure was dangerously high. That nurse didn’t just do a check – she saved my life.
“This year, when I saw the same nurse again at this year’s wellbeing event, it was emotional. I just wanted to let her know what that five-minute check led to; a diagnosis, treatment, and most importantly, a second chance.”
The Stroke Prevention Nurse outreach is part of a wider education and awareness programme delivered across North Wales. The programme targets workplaces, colleges, and community settings, offering free health checks, stroke risk assessments, and life-saving information.
Stroke Improvement Project Manager, Janet Michell, added: “High blood pressure is known as the silent killer, because most people don’t feel unwell. This story shows exactly why we need to meet people where they are in everyday settings. That simple check can save lives.
“We’re not here alarm people, we’re here to give them the information, tools, and support to protect their health. Early intervention makes all the difference.”
Key facts:
- High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease.
- If often has no symptoms – but when present, signs may include headaches, fatigue, or blurred vision.
- A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mm Hg
- Regular checks and early treatment can prevent life-threatening conditions.