Jode Renae J.
Friday, January 14, 2011
By: Jeane M.

Survivor

Jode suffered a massive stroke in May 2008. To say it was a surprise to her and her loved ones is an understatement. She was the perfect picture of a healthy young woman; she is a marathon runner, personal fitness trainer and health and nutrition guru. Luckily, Jode was transported to Mission Viejo Hospital where they are known for their stroke care; they saved her life. Jode was in an induced coma for some time, and when they started to bring her out of it, it became apparent that she would have a long fight to get back to where she was before the stroke. Her entire right side was affected by the stroke, and she was diagnosed with aphasia. After time spent at a therapy hospital, Jode was sent home to work on her own with help from speech, occupational and physical therapists. Through fierce determination, she regained the ability to walk, and she pushed herself to gain her speech back. It has been over two years since her stroke, and she continues to work every day to regain what she lost. She is extremely focused on working to get her right hand and arm strength back which is a struggle. Jode had a successful horse photography business until her stroke, and she is eager to get back to that once she gains more strength on her right side. I feel Jode would be a great person to show that young people are affected by stroke, but through Jode's determination and motivation, she is getting better, and she is an inspiration to others who are following her recovery. Our family has always referred to Jode's post-stroke journey as her marathon to recovery....it is an ongoing journey for her and one that we feel she will overcome through her continued drive and determination.