LAHORE: The Stroke Management Program launched under the leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has emerged as a remarkable example of public service and compassionate healthcare, saving lives during Eidul Fitr, says a press release issued by the government.
Under the CM Punjab directives, the Specialized Healthcare Department is providing costly injections free of charge. Currently, 14 stroke management centres are operational across Punjab, with plans under way to establish such facilities in every district. The chief minister has reaffirmed that timely medical treatment is the fundamental right of every citizen, and the government remains committed to ensuring access to life-saving healthcare for all.
According to Dr Adnan Aslam, head of the Neurology Department, symptoms of stroke include blurred vision, facial distortion, speech difficulty, imbalance and weakness in limbs, and patients must be brought to the nearest stroke centre within the critical “golden hours” -- three to four hours.
Meanwhile, the HBL Pakistan Super League Season 11 officially commenced at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, with Maryam Nawaz gracing the opening ceremony. She was warmly received by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi along with senior officials and dignitaries.
The CM spent time meeting franchise owners, players and officials of all the eight participating teams. She was introduced to the squads of Hyderabad Kingsmen and Lahore Qalandars ahead of the opening clash.
Paying tribute to the international players who traveled to Pakistan, she acknowledged their role in strengthening the league’s global appeal. A special moment of the ceremony came when cricket legend Wasim Akram carried the PSL 11 Trophy onto the field, followed by a commemorative group photo with players and officials to celebrate the league’s expansion.
In her address, Maryam emphasized the resilience of organisers who staged the PSL despite challenging circumstances. She highlighted the spirit of fans, noting that while they could not attend due to the behind-closed-doors policy, their passion remained central to the game. She outlined her vision for youths, stressing the importance of promoting sports over violence, and expressed her ambition to see Pakistan rise as a cricketing superpower.
The ceremony began with the national anthem of Pakistan, followed by Mohsin Naqvi extending best wishes to all teams for the season ahead. Both the chief minister and PCB chairman stayed to witness the opening match between Lahore Qalandars and Hyderabad Kingsmen.
The event was attended by several distinguished figures, including Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, Provincial Ministers Salman Rafiq and Faisal Ayub Khokhar, and Advisor Ali Dar. Administrative and cricket officials such as the chief secretary, PCB CEO Sumair Ahmad, and PSL CEO Salman Naseer were also present. The opening ceremony set the tone for PSL 11, blending cricket, culture and national pride, and reaffirming the league’s status as Pakistan’s premier sporting spectacle.
