The second, less common type of stroke is a hemorrhagic stroke. This type of stroke is often caused by two health factors: high blood pressure and aneurysms. According to the CDC, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures. The leaked blood puts pressure on brain cells, damaging them.

The third type of stroke that can occur is the type that Cooper had -- a transient ischemic attack, or TIA. And there’s a reason that it’s often referred to as a mini-stroke.

TIA differs from major types of stroke because blood flow to the brain is blocked for only a short time -- usually no more than 5 minutes, according to the CDC. The scary thing is that the word “mini” often throws people off. Though this type of stroke may not sound severe, it is. That’s because, left untreated, more than one-third of people who suffer from a TIA will have a major stroke within a year.

In truth, most people don’t know what to do if someone suffers a stroke. This leaves a blind spot when it comes to dealing with this dire situation.

Learning how to deal with a stroke begins with knowing the signs. One of the most important signs of a stroke is exactly what Cooper experienced. That’s a strange tingly sensation and weakness that may strike one side of the body. And like Cooper, sufferers may find speaking difficult. Further, vision may be impaired, and a strange headache or confusion may occur.

When it comes to strokes, timing is everything. The quicker help is sought, the better chance of recovery. In fact, the CDC says the most effective stroke treatments are only available if the stroke is recognized and diagnosed within three hours of the first symptoms. Stroke patients may not be eligible for the most effective treatments if they don’t arrive at the hospital in time. That’s why the CDC has developed a system called F.A.S.T. It’s a test to determine whether or not you or someone you love is having a stroke.