Brian F.

Brian
Brian

Survivor

Four years ago, while cutting firewood, I had an ischemic stroke. I couldn't raise my arm, and not knowing what to do, I didn't know how to shut the chainsaw off. I was so confused, I had to sit down, then fell down on the ground. The next thing I saw was the EMT loading me on the van. I was paralyzed on the right side, and couldn't speak. After a month at the hospital they let me come home for rehabilitation. When we used up all the time the insurance would pay for, I found out about clinical trials. It is a way to get more therapy without money. I took one that involved a balance device, and one on robotics for the arm. Both were helpful.

I took a test and got a drivers license again, and the DVR got me a left side accelerator. I got a Bioness L300, which is a foot lift device that is better than a splint for foot drop, because you don't need a larger shoe. My foot was always cold since I had a stroke, but the circulation has much improved with the Bioness making the foot work. I continue to slowly recover. It takes a lot of time and patience, but when when you quit, recovery ends. Keep at it.     

 

All active news articles


Display of the Faces of Stroke stories does not imply National Stroke Association's endorsement of any product, treatment, service or entity. National Stroke Association strongly recommends that people ask a healthcare professional about diagnosis and treatment questions before using any product, treatment or service. The views expressed through the stories reflect those of the authors and do not reflect the opinion of National Stroke Association.

 

© 2013 National Stroke Association, All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized Use is Prohibited.