Like Elvis dying on the toilet, me dying from a sudden stroke lacks poetry.
It's been a few weeks since I had my strokes. They were almost fatal and a wake-up call to live life to the fullest. I've been making the most of my days (mostly sleeping) and learning to appreciate every moment. It's not easy, but each day is a new opportunity for growth and adventure! Here's hoping my next two strokes aren't anytime soon! Although.... I did lose about 12 lbs., so I'm one stroke away from my ideal weight.
I'm already getting back on my feet, I'm staying with old friends in Mahone Bay NS, and looking forward to taking on new challenges - no matter what they are. I know it is cliche, but I have learned that it's important to make every second count. So, I'm challenging myself to embrace life with open arms - you never know what amazing things could happen!
I spent two weeks in the hospital, learning to walk with a walker, to walking on my own with an ever so slight lean to the left, to struggling for words and sentences, to dealing with every sound made that was impossible to comprehend , to learning to have patience, of which I still have very little.
I'm not sure why I had two strokes, but who's counting right?
I lived a pretty healthy lifestyle*, I mean let's be serious I was no angel, but I don't smoke, I drank socially*, exercised regularly, and didn't eat like I was a death row inmate where every meal was my last*, all efforts were an intentional plan to mitigate risks in my later years. These strokes happened out of the blue with all risk mitigation plans in effect... maybe they did work, I didn't die. But the lesson learned is, no matter how healthy you are or what risk mitigation plans you have in place, life can still surprise you. Live your best life and never take it for granted. This was not fatal so, it's a stroke of luck if I do say so myself!
The important thing is that I am recovering quickly and doing very well - all thanks to the fantastic team of doctors and nurses and family and loved ones! The support has been fabulous, and I thank all of you all from the bottom of my heart!
Now, here I am back in the world of the living. Ready to take on whatever life throws at me with all the energy and enthusiasm of a toddler...so not much has changed in that respect. My mission in life is to make the most of every moment and live like there's no tomorrow! Welcome to my new world... a world filled with more laughter, love, resilience and determination. A world where anything is possible - even when times are tough.
Recovering from the two strokes has been quite an adventure, however an adventure I do not recommend, trust me, my Yelp review of Strokes will be scathing. I'm so thankful for each step I was able to take along the way. It was hard work, and no matter how daunting things seemed at times I pushed my way through.
This experience has given me a renewed sense of purpose and appreciation for my life, and if nothing else, at least I've learned something else. NOTHING MATTERS. Yeah, nothing matters, literally NOTHING, except living your best life. We are are fragile beings, and our lives are too short to just sit on the sidelines, so here's to making every moment count!
My story is far from over - join me as I continue on this journey of recovery and self-discovery. Who knows? We just might stumble across some incredible experiences together that will stay with us forever! Until then, keep living each day like there's no tomorrow! there might not be one.
EDITORIAL NOTE: Please note that these content examples are meant as guidance only and should not be taken as medical advice.
*May have been an over-exaggeration, but I’m allowed to live a bit!
