My stroke recovery journey
Recovery from stroke is a lifelong process. For many people, recovery begins with formal rehabilitation, which can restore independence by improving physical, mental, and emotional functions. It is important for you and your family to know that no matter where you are in your recovery journey, there is always hope. "When you think of the word ‘stroke’ you picture a caress, like stroking a cat. Well, it’s nothing like that! A stroke is devastating! Having a heart attack didn’t bother people that much. Heart attacks aren’t crippling like strokes . It’s so embarrassing! When I was first in rehab they wanted me to draw lines on paper. I didn’t want to work on things my grandkids could do! I didn’t want to be seen in public with a quad cane or a leg brace. The last thing you want is sympathy. At first, when people would hold a door open for me I thought they just felt sorry for me. Now I know they are just being considerate." ...