Medtronic and the World Stroke Organization Partner for the Second Year in Recognition of World Stroke Day

DUBLIN - October 29, 2015 - In recognition of World Stroke Day, Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT) and the World Stroke Organization are joining together for the second year to raise awareness of stroke, which affects an estimated 15 million people worldwide each year. Together, Medtronic and the World Stroke Organization are encouraging people to take 2 minutes to learn about the signs of stroke and then tell 2 people about those signs as part of the global "Take 2...Tell 2" campaign.

The "Take 2...Tell 2" campaign will anchor Medtronic-sponsored events held on World Stroke Day in three global markets: New York City, U.S.; Sao Paulo, Brazil; and Beijing, China. These events will include free blood pressure screenings, educational materials and wellness information, giveaways and special guests. Other activities in recognition of World Stroke Day will also take place in the U.K., Belgium, Italy and France.

As someone personally affected by stroke, former New York Giants football player Carl Banks is joining the World Stroke Day activities in New York City.

"I've seen firsthand the devastating effects that stroke can have on a person as my dad suffered a stroke and while he survived, he was never quite the same," said Carl Banks, former New York Giants football player. "Being aware of the symptoms of stroke is so important as it can affect anyone, regardless of age, race or gender, and the impact, if not treated quickly, can last a lifetime."

The "Take 2...Tell 2" campaign encourages people to share their stroke story by visiting http://www.take2forstroke.com/ and by posting on social media using the hashtag #take2forstroke. Raising awareness can help others recognize the signs of stroke and potentially help save a life.

"Every six seconds, someone dies from stroke, and we're calling for immediate, worldwide action to address the impact of stroke," said Dr. Stephen Davis, president, World Stroke Organization. "Knowing the signs of stroke and modifying your risk factors, such as addressing hypertension and quitting smoking, are key tools to preventing stroke."

The signs of stroke may include drooping or numbness in the face; sudden weakness or numbness of one arm; trouble speaking; trouble seeing; loss of balance; or severe headache with no known cause. If someone is exhibiting any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. The speed at which someone gets medical attention during a stroke is critical to the opportunity for complete recovery.

"We're proud to join Carl Banks and the World Stroke Organization to raise awareness of the signs of stroke on World Stroke Day," said Brett Wall, president of the Neurovascular business, which is part of the Restorative Therapies Group at Medtronic. "We are committed to fighting stroke, not only through educational efforts like the 'Take 2...Tell 2' campaign, but also by providing innovative treatment solutions to those suffering from stroke."

About the World Stroke Organization
The World Stroke Organization (WSO) is the world's leading organization in the fight against stroke. Established in October 2006, WSO's mission is to reduce the global burden of stroke through prevention, treatment and long-term care. With individual and organizational members worldwide, including stroke support groups, WSO is the global voice for stroke and the only international stroke NGO in official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO).

About Medtronic
Medtronic plc ( www.medtronic.com ), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is among the world's largest medical technology, services and solutions companies - alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world. Medtronic employs more than 85,000 people worldwide, serving physicians, hospitals and patients in more than 160 countries. The company is focused on collaborating with stakeholders around the world to take healthcare Further, Together.

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