Three years ago on May 4th I had a stroke as I was getting ready for bed. I had bronchitis at the time and felt overwhelmingly tired but had no pain. I was not aware that my face had drooped and I was slurring my words. I was confused and had a hard time following directions.
Fortunately for me, my husband noticed and brought me downstairs with the help of our daughter and into the car where we drove down the street to our fire station and the EMTs put me into an ambulance and drove me to the hospital. I was receiving treatment within an hour for blood clots and since I am writing this, you can see I survived. Time is critical.
If the timing had been any different – If I had gone to sleep before anyone noticed, my story might have had a different ending. I’m not 100%, I’m not who I was before, but it’s better than the alternative:)
One more thing, dial 911… it was foolhardy to drive to the fire station… Ironically- May is stroke awareness month- anyone can have a stroke, everyone should know the signs.
Here are links to other stroke survivors stories.
Stroke Survivor Stories from CDC
Teacher notices student’s grandmother showing stroke signs during a virtual lesson
Students call 911 when teacher has a stroke
Everyday Heroes are everywhere. Thank you to each and every one of them for helping me when the 4th was not with me 🙂
Such an important message. And so glad you are still with us, penning these fabulous posts!