Re: Rediscovering Myself After a Stroke: A Journey Back to Youth
Several weeks after Brian commenced his rehabilitation journey, we focused on improving his walking ability. The stroke had significantly weakened his muscles and robbed him of control over his legs and arms. Despite this, his brain retained the memory of movement, leading to a challenging phase where Brian would wake up at night, attempting to go to the bathroom as he used to, only to fall due to his weakened muscles. The frequency of these incidents at the rehabilitation center resulted in numerous calls from the facility, prompting Brian’s mother and me to stay with him overnight.
Brian’s frustration was palpable. At one point, he contemplated abandoning all efforts toward recovery. He was a perfectionist by nature, accustomed to meeting high standards independently. The stroke’s aftermath, which left him dependent on others for basic needs, was a source of significant distress. He expressed the extent of his despair, prompting a stern response from me that threatened to withdraw support if he gave up on himself—this moment of tough love proved to be a turning point for Brian.
Taking his rehabilitation more seriously, Brian and I began daily walks with the assistance of a walker. Initially, he required frequent rests, but after 16 months, he progressed to jogging, covering 1.27 miles on his first attempt. Recognizing the importance of proper footwear, I gifted him a pair of running shoes. We also discovered a running app named “Zombies, Run!” with a log function. I encouraged Brian to track his distance and inform me upon reaching 500 km, aiming to monitor the usage of his shoes. Additionally, we invested in a digital scale to measure his muscle composition, weight, and bone mass, which became a source of pride for Brian as he noted his gradual improvements.
Experiencing a stroke results in numerous losses, not just for the survivor but also for their family. Reflecting on Brian’s journal entries during this time evokes strong memories of our shared struggles. I wished I had read a journal like this back then.
My husband truly inspires me. With his permission, I’ve shared excerpts from Brian’s journal to offer hope and insight to others facing similar challenges. Recovery from a stroke is a slow process, but improvement is possible. For those supporting someone like Brian, it’s crucial to communicate hope and encourage perseverance. Never give up.