​In 2008, at the age of 58, Ralph Preston experienced a right-side hemorrhagic stroke. Despite the profound challenges, his determination led him to a remarkable recovery. Within a year, Ralph not only resumed working 10-12 hour days but also clinched three gold medals at the 2009 Macon County, NC Senior Games, advancing to the state senior games as the sole stroke survivor participant.​

Motivated by his journey and recognizing the need for survivor-led support, Ralph founded Stroke Buddies—a collaborative self-management group dedicated to empowering stroke survivors, their families, and healthcare professionals. The core belief of Stroke Buddies is that recovery extends beyond clinical settings; it thrives in communities where shared experiences and mutual support pave the way for healing.​

Since its inception, Stroke Buddies has grown into a vibrant community. The Facebook group, "Stroke Buddies: By and For Stroke Survivors," boasts over 8,400 members, fostering connections and sharing invaluable resources. Beyond online engagement, Ralph has delivered motivational speeches at esteemed organizations, including Life Care Centers of America and the Tri-State Stroke Network. His fundraising initiatives have garnered significant support for stroke-related causes, such as the $1,700 raised for the NC Stroke Association through his participation in the Cycle for Life event.

Understanding the gaps in post-stroke care, Ralph has been instrumental in providing direct assistance to fellow survivors. From conducting physical therapy sessions in homes to volunteering at the Smith Clinic, a free medical facility, his hands-on approach underscores the mission of Stroke Buddies: to ensure that no survivor navigates recovery alone. Collaborations with institutions like the Medical University of South Carolina have further amplified the organization's impact, producing educational videos on stroke telemedicine programs and recovery research.​

At Stroke Buddies, we believe in the power of shared knowledge and collective resilience. Together, we strive to transform the stroke recovery journey, championing a world where every survivor has access to the support, resources, and community they need to thrive.