Two Angels

I had no plans to share this, but after a couple of weeks with unbelievable support, I have to share what my family has done for me.

On July 15th I had a stroke. Specifically called Wallenberg Syndrome.

I lost the ability to speak. The left side of my face had a noticeable droop. My entire left side was so disconnected that I could not walk at all. My throat had closed down, leaving me unable to eat or swallow.

Then, unexpectedly, something happened. Like angels, my sisters came to the rescue. In succession, they stayed at my home, helped to take care of the kids, made food, cleaned the house, and took care of the daily needs that I had no capacity to do. One sister, who is a trainer, put me through my paces and helped me learn to walk again. The other sister helped me learn how to take care of my special needs son and lower the stress in my life. Which no doubt had something to do with the stroke. I now have a cleaner home, well-fed kids, and I am on a path to a better life.

But more than that, because of their selfless dedication, I had time to heal. I was able to rest when I otherwise would not have been able to. I was able to use time to work on myself instead of worrying about my sons and the home. Because of family, I have progressed beyond where most would be after such a huge strike to my body.

I can now walk without a cane. though I do lean to the left.

I can speak loud and clear enough that others can understand me.

My face droop is gone.

All that remains is a right arm that can not sense temperature, and I am still unable to swallow. I must feed myself through a tube, which really sucks because I can not eat the great food that my sisters have prepared for me. But I will get there. If only because of the love and support of family, and the many prayers from good friends – Which are always welcome.

So I say this: Love your family, be grateful for your family. They are the ones who come through in a pinch, regardless of history. And friends. I am lucky to have so many.

Thank you, Charlene Swayze, Thank you Julie Piunti, and thank you Mom and Kathy, and all my friends who have been and will be supporting me. Love, like life, is a wonderful gift.