Jo Anne S.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
By: Jo Anne S.

Survivor

On May 5, 2006, a massive stroke changed my life forever. It turns out that I had a dissection of my right carotid artery and it bled into my brain. At the time, I was only 54 and was working full-time as a public librarian. And I loved it. I was in great health. I walked with my dog a couple miles each day, I never smoked, and since I had a family history of heart disease, I was very proactive about keeping my cholesterol under control. Plus, I had a history of low blood pressure. After the stroke, I woke up talking (true, it was garbled, but hey!). I am a survivor!

I have two absolutely awesome daughters. They stepped up to the plate and have been advocates for me, as well as marvelous caregivers. They have earned gold stars in life and I love them very much. This year, I will celebrate my 5th anniversary as a stroke survivor.

» Learn more about the connection between atherosclerosis and cholesterol to stroke.

» Read other featured stories.

» Share your story.