Stroke Sisters: Stories of Strength and Resilience

In this episode, former teacher Stacey Amore recounts her powerful story of resilience following a sudden stroke in her 40s. Leading an active life, Stacey's outlook changed dramatically after an aggressive chiropractic neck adjustment caused a vertebral artery dissection (VAD) and resulted in several cerebellar strokes. Her path to recovery involved intense physical and occupational therapies and dealing with PTSD. Despite the hardships, she won a lawsuit linked to her stroke, underscoring the importance of self-advocacy, persistence, and courage in the wake of life-changing events.80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.Lifeline ScreeningBooks by Angie Read:Invisible Scars: Stroke Survival, Recovery, and the Unexpected Mental Health FalloutMental Health Hacks: 10 Easy Hacks to Help Manage Anxiety and DepressionIdentity Crisis: You Are Not Your CareerRISE: Mastering the Art of Resilience

In this episode of Stroke Sisters: Stories of Strength and Resilience, Stacy Piedrahita, a former oncology nurse, shares her unexpected journey of surviving an ischemic stroke. Initially dismissed by healthcare professionals, Stacy faced challenges that left her unable to perform daily tasks. Her nursing background proved vital in navigating the system and advocating for her care. After almost giving up on life, she pushed herself to recover enough to walk her daughter down the aisle in October. Despite setbacks in treatment, Stacy's determination and faith have driven her remarkable recovery. She now emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and support networks, reflecting on her experiences as she continues to face other health challenges alongside her stroke recovery.80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.Lifeline ScreeningBooks by Angie Read:Invisible Scars: Stroke Survival, Recovery, and the Unexpected Mental Health FalloutMental Health Hacks: 10 Easy Hacks to Help Manage Anxiety and DepressionIdentity Crisis: You Are Not Your CareerRISE: Mastering the Art of Resilience

Kristin McKenzie shares her remarkable journey from working in sports entertainment and Apple to navigating life after a massive stroke. With a bleak 2% chance of survival, Kristin fought against the odds and began the grueling process of recovery. Her story highlights the emotional and physical challenges of finding new meaning in life after facing life-altering experiences, including time in a skilled nursing facility filled with elderly patients, breaking an ankle, and dealing with personal and professional setbacks. Kristin's pain is raw and real, yet she refuses to give up.80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.Lifeline ScreeningBooks by Angie Read:Invisible Scars: Stroke Survival, Recovery, and the Unexpected Mental Health FalloutMental Health Hacks: 10 Easy Hacks to Help Manage Anxiety and DepressionIdentity Crisis: You Are Not Your CareerRISE: Mastering the Art of Resilience

In this episode of Stroke Sisters, Christina Fletcher shares her transformative journey from a health-conscious single mom to a stroke survivor. Despite being in peak physical condition, she experienced sudden, unexpected changes, including vision loss and mobility issues, due to a stroke. Christina discusses her initial shock, the ensuing challenges, and how the discovery of an undiagnosed heart defect, a PFO, upended her life. Through her story, she reveals the courage it takes to slow down, rely on others, and find peace in adversity. This candid conversation offers insights into the resilience needed to adapt after a life-altering event.80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.Lifeline ScreeningBooks by Angie Read:Invisible Scars: Stroke Survival, Recovery, and the Unexpected Mental Health FalloutMental Health Hacks: 10 Easy Hacks to Help Manage Anxiety and DepressionIdentity Crisis: You Are Not Your CareerRISE: Mastering the Art of Resilience

In this episode of Stroke Sisters, Tracy Hazelwood shares her remarkable journey of recovery following a massive stroke at the age of 51. A medical procedure intended to prevent a stroke ironically led to one. Tracy discusses her intense rehab, the emotional toll of losing close family members during this period, and how her humor and supportive network aided in her recovery. She also highlights the importance of community, including her family, friends, and the Stroke Sisters group, in fostering her resilience and helping her find joy even in the face of ongoing challenges.80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.Lifeline ScreeningBooks by Angie Read:Invisible Scars: Stroke Survival, Recovery, and the Unexpected Mental Health FalloutMental Health Hacks: 10 Easy Hacks to Help Manage Anxiety and DepressionIdentity Crisis: You Are Not Your CareerRISE: Mastering the Art of Resilience

Erin McLaughlin Hartney's life took a dramatic turn when she experienced seven strokes mid-flight at the age of 35. Leaving behind her career as a financial controller, Erin faced numerous challenges, from relearning to speak and walk to finding new purpose. Through determination, therapy, and community engagement, including volunteering and moving to Ireland, she created a life beyond her strokes. Despite the emotional and physical hurdles, Erin's story is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the power of embracing new beginnings, proving that life's setbacks can be transformed into opportunities for personal growth and rediscovery.80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.Lifeline ScreeningBooks by Angie Read:Invisible Scars: Stroke Survival, Recovery, and the Unexpected Mental Health FalloutMental Health Hacks: 10 Easy Hacks to Help Manage Anxiety and DepressionIdentity Crisis: You Are Not Your CareerRISE: Mastering the Art of Resilience

Carrieann Holzworth's story is an extraordinary one, marked by a surprising discovery of multiple strokes at just 39 without any hospital stay. Initially noticing a stutter and difficulty writing, her symptoms led to an MRI revealing numerous strokes. Despite facing comprehension, physical, and spatial difficulties, she not only managed to continue her job at the Federal Railroad Administration but also undertook intensive therapy to regain essential skills. Carrieann's journey is a powerful testament to her resilience, grace, and determination to reclaim her independence and adapt to her new reality.

Janice Johnson, a retired tech industry pioneer and Black woman, shares her incredible story of resilience after surviving a bilateral stroke during the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with paralysis and the inability to speak, Janice’s recovery journey was challenging. Her husband and daughter played crucial roles in her rehabilitation. Janice’s husband, a social worker, secured necessary services to aid her recovery. Her mental toughness, rooted in being born during the civil rights movement, helped her overcome the challenges of recovery.80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.Lifeline ScreeningBooks by Angie Read:Invisible Scars: Stroke Survival, Recovery, and the Unexpected Mental Health FalloutMental Health Hacks: 10 Easy Hacks to Help Manage Anxiety and DepressionIdentity Crisis: You Are Not Your CareerRISE: Mastering the Art of Resilience

In this podcast episode, Angie and former physical therapist Allie Patton Levine discuss the critical steps involved in preparing for discharge after a stroke. Allie highlights the importance of establishing a strong relationship with your case manager, as they play a pivotal role in aligning patient goals with those of the healthcare facility and insurance companies. She shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the need for effective communication and advocacy to ensure suitable rehabilitation protocols, especially for younger stroke survivors. Allie's story of resilience also led to protocol changes, benefiting future patients in similar circumstances.

In this engaging "Part One" episode, Allie Levine shares her compelling journey from being a physical therapist and cheerleading coach to becoming a stroke survivor and advocate. At the age of 49, Allie's life took an unexpected turn with a stroke following a complicated surgery. She offers a unique perspective, blending her professional background with personal experiences, to support other stroke survivors. Allie emphasizes the emotional and mental challenges of stroke recovery and highlights her advocacy work with the Tennessee Valley American Heart Association, focusing on better support for women navigating post-stroke life.

After experiencing a stroke at 64 while maintaining a healthy lifestyle, Dr. Caroline Alexis-Thomas, a wellness expert, used her expertise to aid her recovery. With limited resources in Grenada, she employed online resources and her wellness expertise to create her own rehabilitation program. Caroline emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between health and wellness, advocating for a holistic approach that includes mental, spiritual, and financial well-being. Through her journey, she demonstrates the power of taking charge of one's recovery, aiming to inspire others to transition from merely surviving to truly thriving after health setbacks.Connect with Caroline on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/caroline.alexis.thomas Or check out her Silk Cotton Wellness Lifestyle CentreDid you know that 80% of strokes are preventable?? Book your screening today with LifeLine Screening for peace of mind, or early detection. 

Deidra McLaughlin, a mother of two young boys and special education teacher, faced a life-altering event at 36 when she suffered a stroke on her way back from a funeral. Despite initially attributing her discomfort to a hangover, she found herself in a coma shortly after arriving home. Her recovery journey included battling meningitis and adapting to life with paralysis on her left side. The experience interrupted her dream job and daily life, but with the support of her family and rehabilitation efforts, Deidre has made significant progress, finding strength in her desire to return to teaching and her two young sons.Did you know that 80% of strokes are preventable? Get screened today to uncover hidden risk factors.  Life Line Screening. http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350 

In this episode, Nikki Epperson shares her intense journey of surviving a stroke at the young age of 33. She describes waking up with a severe headache and later realizing she was experiencing a stroke. Despite being paralyzed on her left side, Nikki's faith and determination drive her rehabilitation. Through consistent exercises and lifestyle changes, including improving her diet and quitting alcohol, Nikki has defied doctors' expectations. With unwavering support from her husband, she learns to walk again and advocates for a positive mindset. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of belief.Did you know 80% of strokes are preventable? Schedule a Life Line Screening today to get screened for your risks of stroke and cardiovascular diseases. http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350

Michelle Brotohusomo's life was dramatically altered by a stroke at a relatively young age. Initially uncertain of her symptoms, she quickly shifted to action after a friend's urgent recommendation. Her hospital and rehab experience involved an emotionally and physically demanding process of relearning basic skills. Through her perseverance, Michelle returned to her work with newfound insight and determination. Her journey emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and the support of a strong community. Michelle's story is a testament to recovery, illustrating how a major health crisis can lead to personal growth and renewed priorities.Did you know that 80% of strokes are preventable? Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular disease. http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350

Debbie Mangan recounts her stroke experience, which began unexpectedly while gardening. After being rushed to a hospital across town due to the severity of her condition, Debbie spent weeks in a coma and eventually transitioned from a ventilator to a trach. Her recovery journey was challenging, involving relearning to walk and adjusting to life post-stroke. Despite initial fears and obstacles, Debbie's resolve to walk again was fueled by mindset tips taught by a life coach. Her story highlights the importance of resilience and the support of community studies aiding stroke rehabilitation.

Cassie Miller Thornburg, a professional singer, faced a life-altering stroke at age 54 that abruptly halted her successful career. Despite the challenges, Cassie’s faith and determination led her to find new joys in life beyond music. Though she eventually decided to step away from singing, Cassie finds happiness in being a wife and a ‘mom’ to her cat, embracing new roles with grace and celebrating life’s changes with hope.Link to Life Line Screening: http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350

Delanie Stevenson, a former teacher and young mother of two at the time, shares her harrowing experience with an ischemic brain stem stroke at the age of 33. The episode recounts her unexpected symptoms, the urgent hospital trip, and her struggle with the 'locked-in' condition that left her initially unable to move or talk. Delaney also discusses her inspiration to recover, drawn from her sister who had survived a stroke a year prior. This shared family ordeal inadvertently prepared and motivated Delaney, transforming her recovery journey and leading her to pen her experiences in books and articles.Thank you for listening. If you would like to be a guest on the show, or know someone who might, please email me at angie@strokesisters.com.Link to Life Line Screening: http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350

In this heartfelt episode, Angela West shares her journey of surviving a massive ischemic stroke at just 38. After experiencing dizziness and vision loss at work, Angela fell, leaving her hemiplegic on the left side. A quick-thinking customer called 911, ensuring she received timely medical intervention. Despite an allergic reaction to thrombolysis drugs, Angela underwent successful thrombectomy surgery. Through navigating recovery and facing the loss of her father, Angela's story exemplifies resilience and her unwavering love for family, as she finds the path forward with humor and strength.80% of strokes are preventable. Life Line Screening has been the premier provider of preventive health screenings for detecting a person’s risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses.  Screenings are easy, painless, non-invasive and affordable.  And Life Line Screening has 15,000 locations across the United States. Schedule your screening today and receive peace of mind or early detection, both are vital for good health! Book your appointment at (844) 558-0950. Or use this link. http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350

In this insightful podcast episode, stroke survivor Megan Thomas shares her compelling recovery story. At just 34, Megan faced a life-changing stroke while attending a board meeting. Drawing on her previous experience as a medical emergency dispatcher, she recognized the signs and sought immediate help. Today, Megan's journey is marked by her relentless determination and resilience. With the support of her parents and community, she continues to make strides in her physical rehab, notably with the help of an innovative exoskeleton. Her story is an inspiring testament to the power of inner strength and the importance of support networks.

In this episode of Stroke Sister Stories, Angie sits down with Jennie Wallace, a 41-year-old stroke survivor and dedicated wife and mother. Jenny recounts the sudden onset of her stroke in 2023 and the critical moments that followed. Despite no prior risk factors, Jenny faced her crisis head-on, beginning her recovery journey with courage and determination. She shares how she managed her new reality, balanced family responsibilities, and led a successful fundraising campaign for the Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke. Jenny’s story is one of resilience, bravery, and commitment to both personal recovery and community support.If you or someone you know is interested in being a guest on the show, please email angie@strokesisters.com. We're also always happy to chat with potential sponsors.