Hand in Hand

Deborah & Cam discuss how easily anyone can make simple adjustments to improve their life while in the process of recovery and beyond. Life after TBI may not be what you had envisioned; it can be better, a new normal - taking you places, meeting people you never dreamed, living a happy, healthy life. Deborah’s award winning book Becoming the Healer The Miracle of Brain Injury is packed full of helpful ideas for those going through medical trauma and those who care for them. She has moved to North Carolina where she founded Awakenings: Center for Inner Healing & Empowerment – a non-profit spiritual retreat & healing center as well as developing healing tools like Pocket Change to help others with positive change in a fun and easy way. You may contact Deborah through the center at deborah@AwakeningsCenterNC.com or by phone at 828-645-9711 or through her Facebook page.

Mary Nicholson, Founder of Healings in Motion, was a successful businesswoman. After suffering a life-altering stroke, her biggest venture became the reclamation of her life. Her journey of change began with a broken heart, after the devastating loss of her newlywed husband to Pancreatic Cancer. Her mourning was so severe and painful that Mary was hospitalized twice. She could not believe that the love that swept her off her feet was now gone. While grieving, Mary had a brain aneurysm and was rushed to the hospital. While on the operating table, she then suffered an ischemic stroke, grand mal seizure and a frozen shoulder. Her injuries left her without the ability to drive, walk or even make a complete sentence. But Mary knew that her body, mind and soul were her #1 business and priority. With this focus, she worked relentlessly to gain back her strength and engaged with organizations that worked with others with disabilities. This led to her to coordinate and sponsor the 1st Central Valley Learning Disability Fair. The success of this event, her love of helping others and bringing people together led Mary to establish Healings in Motion.

George Scola is a stroke survivor. Many years ago, stroke disrupted his thriving career in finance. Undeterred, he started the Stroke Survivors Foundation to champion the cause for stroke survivors. He now also serves on the board of the World Stroke Organization. George has long held the vision that post discharge support is crucial to stroke survivors and a better stroke care. He is now working with Strokefocus to roll out a PDSS program in South Africa and beyond.

Vince is a fitness enthusiast and an olympic weightlifter hobbyist. At 28 years old he suffered an ischemic stroke that left him with hemiparesis on the 4th of July 2016. Vince credits being extremely blessed and remaining focused on positivity throughout rehab and onto recovery outside of the facility with making progress over the 3 years since his stroke. Vince views recovery as an ongoing challenge and sees this as an opportunity to share his story. With an emphasis on community, Vince has participated in online campaigns to raise awareness for stroke. Vince is learning to share what he believes are words of positivity and encouragement. He even says that this hurdle was given to him to show others what a survivor can beat with resolve.

Today, our panel of stroke and brain injury survivors will talk to Dr Cynthia Wilson, an art therapist with 15 years of experience on what art therapy can do to stroke recovery. According to Dr Wilson, art Therapists are masters level trained individuals who use the combination of the creative arts and mental health counseling to promote the positive mental health of people of all ages. Art Therapy has been proven to reduce stress and increase confidence. Dr Wilson believes art is a universal language that can be very healing for even those individuals experiencing the greatest depths of hopelessness. She has created the founder of the Unique Imaging Art Therapy Program which enables individuals to express themselves in a way that expands their vision of their place in the world. Her clientele has included children, adults and geriatrics in group, family and individual settings. Her solutions include art therapy, play therapy, and photo therapy techniques to children, adolescents, adults, older adults and families.

This is a special episode. Dr Ayesha Hunter, who is a prime expert in post stroke trauma, met with survivors and support group leaders to discuss post stroke psychological challenges. Strokefocus will work with Healings In Motion to offer a series of such discussions. If you would like to participate and meet the professionals directly, sign up at https://discovery.strokefocus.net/him

Mark Vega is an attorney and a runner. He suffered a major ischemic on 6/22/15 and a second major ischemic on 1/11/16. Luckily, Mark recovered extremely well from both incidents. He even ran marathons after that and has run longer distances too. He is a practicing lawyer and still does that working in technology, entertainment and media. He is an Army Veteran and volunteers as the Judge Advocate for American Legion Hollywood Post 43. Since the strokes he sees his work and volunteer life center around people in transition. These include Stroke Survivors, Veterans, Trans and LGBTQ people and members of 12-Step Recovery programs.

Multistem®, a drug-like cell therapy to treat stroke with adult stem cells is developed by Athersys (ATH-er-sis), a clinical-stage biotechnology company founded by a group of leading scientists in 1995. In Episode 91, we interviewed Sharon Thomas, a survivor who experienced miraculous recovery after given multistem. Athersys is conducting the Phase 3 clinical trials for MultiStem®. During Phase 2 trials in the U.S, the studies showed that MultiStem® could extend the treatment window for ischemic stroke patients to 36 hours, compared to the 3 or 4 hour window to treat patients with TPA. That meant individuals who may have had a stroke in their sleep, or patients who did not recognize the symptoms right away, might still have a favorable outcome with MultiStem® versus TPA. Multistem® has obtained FDA’s Fast Track designation. It is also in Phase 3 studies in Japan. Our guest today is Gil Van Bokkelen, CEO of Athersys, who will share with us exciting progress of Multistem®.

At age 26, Paul Coyne had to leave Goldman Sachs because of the residual of the stroke that happened to him. Undeterred, Paul returned to school to prove that despite a challenging stroke recovery and a congenital heart disease, he is still capable of great success. In the next 4-years, Paul obtained 5 degrees including a Doctorate from Columbia University School of Nursing as well as an MBA in Healthcare Management and a MS, Finance from Northeastern University. In addition, with his friend Michael Wang, Paul launched Inspiren, which is rapidly gaining traction in the medical world, leveraging Artificial Intelligence to revolutionize the nursing process. Today, Dr. Coyne is a board-certified nurse practitioner in Adult-Gerontology with sub-specialty in palliative care and his writings on end-of-life care have been published in academic journals. Columbia named him one of 9 great graduates of their entire university of 2016 upon completion of his doctorate. Listen to his remarkable story and get to know Dr Coyne.

Sharon Thomas was a road construction worker in Oregon, whose life took an unexpected turn at age 45 when she collapsed with a massive stroke that left her unable to walk, talk or even swallow. Her stroke struck one night while she was clearing dishes after dinner at her parents' house near Roseburg, Oregon. Her father noted that something was wrong with Sharon and that she may be having a stroke. She felt herself falling--knowing she was going to fall but not why--and was caught by John, her husband. Sharon was airlifted from a nearby hospital to OHSU in Portland. John was told to prepare for a long period of rehab for Sharon and that life would never return to normal. Fortunately, doctors at OHSU told John about a trial for a cell therapy from Athersys, Inc., called MultiStem. The study was double blind and it was disclosed after the Phase 2 trial ended that Sharon did not receive a placebo. She did receive MultiStem. After a period of physical, occupational and speech therapy, Sharon returned to work, which required lifting 30-pound sandbags and driving heavy road construction equipment. She returned to coaching basketball and because of her continued recovery, Sharon felt confident enough to change jobs recently to work in an all-new field.

Scott is the CEO of NEOFECT USA, and one of the founders of its parent company, NEOFECT. The med tech company creates gamified rehabilitation solutions for patients recovering from or living with stroke, dementia, aer musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Scott wore several different hats before joining NEOFECT, including as a management consultant and a product manager in the software industry. Scott worked for mobile gaming companies such as GREE, Z2Live (which was acquired by King.com, a "Candy Crush" maker that was later acquired by Activision Blizzard) and 505 Games, and founded a couple of startups. NEOFECT went on an IPO in November 2018, currently traded on the KOSDAQ. Scott was born with spinal bifida and has undergone surgery and understands the long process of rehabilitation. Spina bifida is a birth defect that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don't form properly. It falls under the broader category of neural tube defects. His prior experience in the gaming software industry has also contributed to his ability to create the games and software.

Bob Mandell’s dedication to helping others stricken by stroke has led to a new career path as author, stroke coach, speaker and founder of the Stroke Recovery Foundation, whose mission is to improve post-stroke lifestyles through education, awareness, activism, advocacy, and knowledgeable resource navigation. In his prior life, he was a corporate marketing executive, partner in an international management consulting firm, an adjunct professor at Fairfield University, and an entrepreneur in the telecommunications field. He earned his M.S. in Business from Penn State and his B.B.A. from Pace University in New York.

Kris Tucker is a 49 year old stroke survivor from Sydney, Australia. Kris suffered a stroke 6 years ago at the age of 43. He was in a rain aneurysm surgery to clip the aneurysm when he suffered a stroke. Kris would like to share all the things he has learned in the last 6 years with other people affected by stroke. Kris believes that if someone had done this with him, his marathon journey would have been a lot easier. He is putting together a stroke survivor's guide to life after stroke. The guide touches mobility, balance, essential life skills and how to stimulate the cognitive thinking.

Emory Moe or Emo is 67 years old. He had a stroke in 2014 at the age of 63. Emo worked for decades as a computer engineer. Additionally, he had been a professional rock n' roll bass player with about 200 musical dates a year. Life was good and extremely busy. In October 2014, Emo was working on a software project when he suddenly went completely blind. He was taken by ambulance to a hospital emergency room, where people completely misdiagnosed his stroke. They thought there was something wrong with Emo’s eyes, so they sent Emo home and told him to call his doctor in the next seven to ten days. Emo called his doctor right away who had him go to an ophthalmologist to get my eyes checked out. The ophthalmologist said my eyes were fine. So the doctor referred him to a neurologist. The neurologist immediately sent Emo for an MRI where they determined that Emo had had a stroke. They always say you should get stroke treatment immediately, but by this time it was four or five days later. Emo is grateful that he does not have any paralysis or speech problems, although he has a little trouble keeping his balance sometimes. Over a few months, his eyesight gradually came back about 80%, but Emo still has peripheral blindness in the upper left quadrant of both eyes. The initial blindness was such a devastating problem that it took him several months to realize that he had also lost a lot of cognitive function. Emo’s wife has had to take over all the family finances, including paying all the bills. Emo has been doing his best to utilize the exercises on Luminosity.com and BrainHQ.com, but the exercises that seem difficult with minimal results so far. Emo is blessed with a wonderful wife who is very sympathetic and understanding. He does not know what he'd do without her. Listen to Emo as he shares his story with Cam, our host.

Bringing stroke care to those who do not have access is the mission for Stroke Association Support network- Ghana, which is a non profit, non governmental organization established by a small group of Ghanaians on 16th March, 2012. In Ghana, there are only 4 hospitals in the south of the country who provides stroke care to survivors. Stroke Association Support network- Ghana is working hard to change that. With its successful experiment, Stroke Association Supportnetwork- Ghana was nominated for the African Youth SDGs Award in the* LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND *category. Today, Dr Ben Jabuni, the president of Stroke Association Support network- Ghana will share with you their exciting progress and big dreams they work hard to turn into reality.

This is our second interview with Manny Gigante. As you recall, Manny was a hardworking young technologist whose dream was shattered by a stroke at the age of 29. He spent the next 2 years in a wheelchair. In 2005, Manny lost his son due to a tragic accident. None of this has kept Manny from reinventing himself. Now Manny enjoys his time coaching kids. He got out of his wheelchair. Manny is also working to start his new career In today's episode, listen to Manny sharing his insights on topics including the plateau and how survivors could reinventing ourselves.

Marty Zimmerman is a survivor. Five years ago at the age of 25 he suffered a hemorrhagic stroke due to a brain AVM. His left side was weakened, but much has returned since March 7, 2013. Marty wrote a book about the incident and my recovery. It is entitled "Life Interrupted - The Story of a Young Stroke Survivor." Marty lves in his hometown of Greencastle, PA. He graduated from Messiah College and earned a Master's degree in applied history from Shippensburg University in December 2017. Marty currently works as a part-time deli clerk at Kline's Grocery Store and as a part-time instructor for the Remfrew Institute. He is the oldest of three. Besides working Marty spends his time going to the gym, taking day trips, spending time with family, writing faith based poetry, sharing his story with groups throughout the area, reading, and studying history. Life is sweet again.

A brain aneurysm occurs when a weak spot in your brain’s arterial wall bulges and fills with blood. It may also be called an intracranial aneurysm or cerebral aneurysm. A brain aneurysm is a potentially life-threatening condition that can affect a person at any age. If a brain aneurysm bursts, it’s an emergency situation that can result in a stroke, brain damage, and even death if not treated immediately. Listen to Tracy Faulkner, a pharmacist and an aneurysm survivor tell you what she knows about aneurysm.

17 years ago, Marc and Harriet had a peaceful and beautiful life in Florida. Marc worked for Disney. He is also a broadcast enthusiast. He loved his studio. Harriet is a Pharm D in Pharmacy and a well-seasoned pharmacist. Their beautiful life was disrupted by Marc’s stroke, which happened totally out of blue. After that, they faced many challenges, including loss of job and lack of support. They never gave up. They tried out many things that can be helpful for other survivors and caregivers to know. Today, Marc and Harriet help out with the Young Stroke Organization to help spread what they have learned.

The Anat Baniel Method®/NeuroMovement® is an intervention that uses gentle movement to create new connections in the brain. For stroke survivors, NeuroMovment offers a way to tap into the power of neuroplasticity and re-map the neural connections lost in a stroke. This summer, Cam Compton had the opportunity to work with Tessa Thompson and Nadia Vizitei, two certified NeuroMovement practitioners working in St. Louis, MO. In this interview, Cam talks with Tessa and Nadia about what NeuroMovement is, how it was developed, and how it can help stroke survivors. Listen to Tessa and Nadia discussing this new method with our host Cam.

Ted Baxter has an extraordinary life. With his scholastic achievement, he managed to fund his own college education. He then built his new financial services consulting practice in Japan. All this changed when Ted was hit by a stroke at the age of 41. He had no warning signs, no TIA. He was healthy as a horse, an avid exerciser, and took great care of himself. But due to his job, he spent a lot of time on airplanes and including long airplane trips, and this could be a major cause of his stroke - which as he tells his story in the book, unbeknownst to him, he had a deep vein thrombosis or DVT in his right shin that broke loose. Listen to his story

Alison Shapiro was a successful business woman and a visual artist when she was hit by 2 devastating brain stem strokes in 2002 at the age of 55. This life changing event turned her into a leader, an author and educator in the stroke community. Alison not only recovered from the injury but published her inspiring book, Healing into Possibilities and her DVD, What Now?: Sharing Brain Recovery Lessons. A strong believer of neuroplasticity, Alison runs a website healingintopossibiliy.com and provides coaching information to people who are interested in leveraging mindfulness to recover from stroke. Alison is the cofounder of Strokefocus. In Sept 2012, Daniel suffered a brain stem stroke. Through the internet, Daniel found Alison who has been mentoring and coaching Daniel ever since. Daniel recovered remarkably well from the injury. In order to turn their experience into something that can help many people, Alison encouraged Daniel to start Strokefocus in 2014. Alison has been involved in a number of recovery focused research projects. She created a successful stroke recovery training program which she teaches in California and Virginia.

Denise Bourne is a member of the Unlimited Possibilities. A local stroke and TBI support group in Atlanta which is the flagship group in Brain Injury Association of Georgia. Denise’s life took an unexpected turn 31 years ago. She was a Ph.D. student when suddenly everything was derailed by a Traumatic Brain Injury. Things were very hard. It seemed that no one could understand what Denise was going through. One day, Denise found the Unlimited Possibilities which changed her life. Today, Denise is very heavily involved in running the local group with friends who had similar experience. She is a strong advocate of local support groups to stroke and brain injury community. They are making a great difference.

Clem Sudder is a stroke survivor, a member of the Unlimited Possibilities. A local stroke and TBI support group in Georgia and a flagship group in Brain Injury Association of Georgia. Clem has played a very important role in helping Unlimited Possibilities grow. He offers some very unique perspectives on many issues around Stroke and TBI recovery. Encouraged by his fellow group members, Clem started a vlog. Currently, Clem is running an online support group. You can join Clem each Friday at 3 pm Eastern Standard Time. There is no cost. As long as you have a good internet connection, you can join via a smartphone, a tablet or a computer connected with a webcam and a microphone.

Naomi Beigel is a stroke survivor. On April 8 of 2010, she went in for a full hip replacement. This was not the first surgery she had after having aortic valve replacement done in 1989. Naomi was in critical condition for three days. Doctors were very concerned that she would not make it. Naomi realized her left side didn't work at all. But she was able to talk. During that time, a nurse who came to do her vitals asked if she was a stroke patient. Naomi said no. And the nurse told her she was now. A male nurse asked Naomi to tell her husband she had a stroke. NO doctor visited him for several hours when he arrived at the hospital. Initially, doctors told her husband she wouldn’t able to drive. They even canceled her car insurance. Naomi never gave up. She was very aggressive with therapies. She staid in the hospital for over six weeks. Since 2010 Naomi took on all kinds of occupational and physical therapies. She learned to set small and achievable goals. She worked through a lot of frustration and anger. Naomi is determined that she would live the lives the best she could. As her husband was nearing retirement, she didn't want him to have to push a wheelchair around so she tried everything she could to learn to walk again. She even found a volunteering position at the local police department. This volunteer work helped her speech improve noteably. Naomi and her husband traveled at least three times to Hawaii then Aruba and St. Martin and a lot of family gatherings they had learned how to set up a bathroom so she could be safe in it. In April 2017, she went on a 15-day cruise through the Panama Canal. She did not know that her husband would fall sick after they landed back in LA May 4. Naomi started to take care of him until he passed September 2 my life was taking care of him. Naomi is now working to deal with the stroke and loss of her best friend for 52 years, her late husband, Rich. Naomi has learned when she gets frustrated, she could say to herself three things she is grateful for that she can do. It does help. She is a firm believer where there is a will there is a way. Listen to her interview with Cam.

Stroke does not discriminate. It does not spare the beautiful Mediterranean island nation of Cyprus, whose history dated back to 8200 BC. Stroke support in Cyprus had a lot to be desired. There was not a lot of social awareness around stroke. Government support was minimal. Marina Charalambous, a speech therapist decided to change it. She set up the Cyprus Stroke Association and started building support network ground up. It is not easy but Marina is making progress step by step. She helped a Ph.D. student who suffered a stroke to return to her study back in the UK. Listen to her interview with Cam and learn more about the stroke care in Cyprus.

Kathryn Dunning became a stroke survivor at the age of 35. She was an avid runner, participating in various races and marathons whenever she could. She was young, active and healthy – suffering from a stroke in her sleep was the last thing she was expecting. She later found out her stroke was due to a patent foramen ovale (PFO), a congenital hole in the heart. About 25% of the population has a PFO, and although most of these patients do not experience strokes, sometimes a blood clot can pass through the hole in the heart and up to the brain causing a stroke. This can happen to people of all ages and multiple times without the presence of typical risk factors. After her diagnosis, Kathryn underwent a procedure to close the hole in her heart and has now been stroke-free for 8 years. Since the procedure, Kathryn is able to run again and return to her normal lifestyle—the best gift of all. Now, she has made it her mission to raise awareness about PFO and share her experience with others so they can be their own biggest advocates and take charge of their own health.

Bill is a Generation X Stroke Survivor. He woke up on the morning of June 3, 2017, with a blood clot in his basal ganglia, which robbed him of the use of his left arm and leg. With a lot of work and physical therapy, Bill relearned how to walk, albeit with a nifty cane. His arm is getting better. Bill is optimistic that one day he’ll get my fingers back. Professionally, Bill is a corporate trainer and product evangelist, primarily focused on the technology industry. He has worked for some of the world’s largest corporations, including Toshiba and Microsoft. He has done media interviews at major tradeshows for broadcast around the world, and he has appeared on QVC multiple times. I’m always looking for new opportunities to speak, write, teach, and travel. Bill is a podcaster who drove the creation of podcast based training in US electronics retail. He is also a regular guest on the Caffeinated Comic podcast, a Chicago-based show covering the comic book, geek, and pop culture content and issues. Bill also host the 2-Minute Talk Tips podcast where he helps folks become more effective public speakers in as little as 2 minutes a week. In February 2018, Bill launched the Strokecast podcast where he explores rehab, recovery, the frontiers of neuroscience, and one-handed banana peeling. He plans to use this platform to share his story and the stories of other stroke survivors, caregivers, medical professionals, and others impacted by stroke. Personally, he lives in Seattle, WA, with his long-term girlfriend. Bill grew up in Queens, NY, and went to college in Helena, MT. He had a great time and education as part of the Carroll College Talking Saints, the school’s award-winning Speech and Debate team.

Rick was a successful business owner in Ontario when he was hit by a stroke in March 2015. He had no warning sign. He was very healthy except some back problems. When the stroke happened, he did not have bad headaches but a very severe back pain. Rick was rushed to the hospital and no one could recognize he had a stroke, although he could not balance himself and had to sit in a wheelchair. The doctors told him to see a heart specialist when another attacked made him unable to handle things with his right hand. At that time, a doctor identified that Rick was having a stroke. He was sent to hospital again. Rick spent 7 months in rehab. His wife has been very supportive since his stroke. But today’s medical care leaves a lot to be desired. Listen to Rick telling Cam how Rick has been handling his challenges and recovery.

Stroke Association Support Network- Ghana is a Non Profit, Non-Governmental Organization Established by a small group of Ghanaians. Established in 16th March 2012 by Rev Dr. Immanuel Alpha-Christ, Ad Adams Ebenezer, and Dr. Ben S. Jabuni, its primary purpose is to advocate, inform and educate the public to prevent stroke, support caregivers and help stroke survivors. Its board of Management and a President who are all volunteers. Since its conception 5 years ago, the organization focus on nurturing grass root community support across Ghana. Its campaigns focus on raising awareness of Stroke, a growing public health issue with devastating consequences in Ghana. Listen to Dr Jabuni tell us more about his organization.

Duncan Salloway suffered a TBI just from slipping while cleaning his driveway of snow. The driveway very slick from an earlier freezing rain then snow on top. It had a slope to it so standing was almost impossible. So Duncan was shoveling away and his feet all of a sudden were not where they were supposed to be and he landed on his head. He shook it off and finished his job and went for dinner. 5 years later it was noticed he could not walk in a straight line and he was shuffling my feet a lot. Duncan was also experiencing all kinds of pains . Then he took an MRI and found that he had Hydrocephalus or water on the brain. Duncan initially thought after the surgery, he would be ok. All that happened in 2008 when he was 48, rasing a family in a nice small town. It was told to him that it would be best if Ihe retired and his symptoms were getting worse. Duncan had plans to fly to a wedding in Vegas. He was then told that he needed to retire and NOT FLY. Should he take that flight, he might risk his life due to the change in air pressure. After that, Duncan took many brain surgeries which saved his life but left him with many challenges. The last was 2 and a half years ago. Duncan is slowly adjusting to his new life and deal with constant headaches. Listen to Duncan sharing his story with our host Cam.

Stroke changed Amy Edmunds' life. Amy changed how stroke is viewed around the world. As a cryptogenic stroke survivor since 2002, Amy Edmunds established YoungStroke, Inc. as an outcome of her graduate studies in 2005 to benefit other survivors and their caregivers. As an NIH-funded researcher, Amy evangelizes the unmet needs of young adult stroke survivors on such global platforms as the World Stroke Congress and the International Stroke Conference. She serves as the first American stroke survivor elected by international peers to the Board of Directors of the World Stroke Organization. Last year, she launched Young Stroke Editorials as a quarterly publication to ignite discourse about stroke support organizations helping young adults who experience a stroke.

The 9th Annual Stroke Awareness Picnic sponsored by Orange County Stroke Rehab Network is coming on May 5th at UC Irvine Medical School Campus. We had the unique opportunity to interview Dr Steven Cramer, co-founder of the Orange County Stroke Rehab Network. This year the theme is Living Well After Stroke. Listen to Dr Cramer and the progress his network is achieving.

A father of five, and a former basketball player, on December 23, 2014, Lee suffered from his first stroke. He woke up incoherent and unable to speak. Lee had no idea what was happening. He willed himself to his feet and called out to his wife to no avail. It was only until Lee was halfway down the stairs that his wife saw him. He will never forget the fear and horror that he saw in her eyes. His wife quickly called 911 and he was transported to the hospital. Lee experienced two more strokes by Christmas morning and by the New Years my journey began. The progress for the former college basketball player has been slow, painful, confusing, filled with self-doubt and denial at times. These obstacles have placed Lee in a position to help other "stroke warriors" who are trying to cope with life after a stroke(s). Today, he counter stroke with LIFE, LOVE and HOPE! Lee discovered the key to rehabilitation is to live life pass its limitations, love people pass their limitations, and have faith pass your limitations. Lee is now a successful motivational speaker. He started his organization Counter Stroke. This is how Lee leads his people to answer the challenge of stroke.

Kate Elizabeth is a stroke survivor and Habilitation professional who had a stroke at 10 years old, resulting in left-side paralysis. She continues to pursue her desire for personal independence and to find unique ways to achieve two-handed tasks with one hand. Kate is an author and speaker with a message of hope, and a way out of suffering, for stroke survivors and disadvantaged people. Now 40, Kate has achieved acceptance and is a real stroke survivor. At the same time reigniting her road to recovery. Kate is a mother to 3 children, 4 yr old twin boys and 5 yr old girl. She is an independent traveller, movie goer, regular attendee at kids parties and currently lives in Newcastle. Last year Kate decided it was imperative to share her knowledge of living one handed to help the millions of stroke survivors and people living with limited arm movement out there. She felt it was her experience and unique knowledge that could heal many lives around the world. Kate published her book Beyond Stroke: Living Independently with One Arm with the grave awareness that many stroke survivors do not achieve dignity, freedom and independence. Since June 2016 the book has been an international success in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, India, America and the U.K. It has been her message of hope and easy to use tools throughout the one of a kind book that is commanding positive feedback and changing lives all over the world.

November 13, 2013 was a day like any other day, sunny and cool. After eating the usual oatmeal breakfast, Ron Hawk went to his wife's office and sat down on couch while she worked. He hadn't been feeling well, and tried to get up after a few minutes. He fell forward on a large exercise ball that was blocking his way. He got up again, and stumbled to his office. His wife was concerned and followed him. He tried to focus in and couldn't see her. When he said, "Oh, there you are!" She became concerned and called 911. He was having a stroke. He made his way out of his office and stumbled as if drunk. While his wife was on the phone with 911, she tried to get him to answer a few simple questions, but he was only babbling. He laid down on the bed and would not get up. He said he just wanted to sleep, and his wife and two EMT's could not get him up. They had to call for Sheriff's deputies to come assist them. There were 3 deputies and 2 EMT's surrounding his bed when he finally rose from the bed and walked out of the room and onto the stretcher. He laid down, they strapped him in, and took him to the local hospital where he stayed for five hours before he was airlifted to Shands in Gainesville. From the time he went to the hospital until he was transferred to the helicopter, the weather steadiy grew worse. The nurse was not sure they'd be able to lift off. Once they did, he was hospitalized in the neurology ward for 7 days, and then another 7 days in rehab before he was able to finally come home. Listen to Ron and his wife Penelope telling their stories. An extraordinary detour.

Stroke Association Of Kenya was established in the year 2015 because of the need to tackle stroke which is becoming more common around the world. Its founder Evans was a pharmacist before his stroke. What happened to him not only changed his life but also the stroke care in his country. Determined to turn his personal experience into something that can benefit many others, he created the organization aimed at raising awareness and offers lessons on preventive and rehabilitation measures. Evans and his team have been able to do this successfully for the past three years overcoming many constraints. Stroke Association Of Kenya is a non profit organization and is entirely led by survivors, It is a platform for survivors speak in one voice. Since its birth, the organization has moved swiftly to make a change. Survivors want their voice heard. They want to lead a meaningful life after stroke. Providing help has been the mission of the Stroke Association of Kenya. Listen to Evans introducing his organization to Cam. This episode was brought to you by the World Stroke Organization.

Gillian's was a physiotherapist and exercise instructor. She is now working as a ‘ ‘science translator’ in the University of Newcastle’s Stroke Recovery Research Group, at Hunter Medical Research Institute (Newcastle, Australia). Gillian’s main work is identifying people with stroke in the local community willing to take part in research studies and signing them up. She loves her job. She enjoys getting to stay in touch with local people who have had strokes and linking them with researchers who are working hard to solve their problems. Those questions about getting back into life after a stroke! She manages the group’s social media accounts - search for strokebrainprc [say “stroke brain P R C”] on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and moonlights as a research assistant and university teacher. The rest of the time she’s busy riding bikes, mucking about with her kids and trying to figure out how to make our city an easier place to live regardless of your health or disability.

Ellie is aged 22 and suffered a stroke in August 2016, Ellie had gone in for surgery to hopefully stop her seizures but unfortunately the surgeon clamped blood vessels as he went into the brain and cut off the blood supply. When Ellie awoke from the surgery she was paralysed down her left side. Ellie spent 3 months in rehab and worked every day to ensure she didn't come home in a wheelchair. She has physio twice a week and acupuncture once a week, and is working so hard to get back to her old self and enjoy life. She is working hard so one day she will use her left arm and hand again!

Dan Ridge is a retired entrepreneur and stroke survivor. In 2008, he founded the CATO Services, a business to handle recruiting. Since 2007, he has been the Consultant and Chief Star Gazer (Visionary) for a talent acquisition and retention consulting firm that helps clients identify the state of their hiring and retention process and helps them move from where they are now to where they want to be and helps them achieve some level of improvement in their process. 3 years ago, Dan suffered a stroke. Unlike other survivors, his speech and mobility has been left intact. Stroke did damage to his vision. At the beginning, Dan had no one to compare to. But after knowing more and more survivors, he realized how lucky he was. He also developed a deep appreciation of how strong survivors are. “They are in wheel chairs. They have lost their speech. But they keep trying. Some get something back in 10 years. They still want to do things.” Dan wants to set up a business to recruit 4-5 stroke survivors and teach them how to do recruiting. Listen to Dan who shares his idea with Dan

Our guest this week is Sarah Belson who has over 20 years’ experience working in international development, supporting local organisations to set up, deliver community activities and engage in advocacy. She has worked with the World Stroke Organization (WSO) for nearly 3 years and loves her job; she finds working on stroke awareness and support globally a much more equalising way to engage in international development. Stroke knows no borders, it is a global problem, not restricted to one area of the globe, and we therefore need to address this globally in collaboration and partnership with others.

In 2010, when Debra was a professor at Stanford, she suffered a severe stroke. she lost all movement of her right arm and leg; even worse, Debra lost all ability to communicate. While Debra won her struggle to survive, much of her identity – as a Stanford professor, a speaker and writer, an athlete, a mother and a wife – was taken from her. Debra’s mind was working but she was trapped inside a broken body, unable to do what she used to do. And maybe even worse, Debra couldn't tell anyone what she was experiencing. ​​ With hard work and a lot of help Debra regained enough mobility to again be independent, and have recovered some ability to speak. But she has come to accept that she will never again have all the capabilities she once had. ​​ Seven years later, Debra is still slowly recovering more of her abilities and is continuing to rebuild her identities. She has found few resources to help with the emotional piece of this journey, and has heard the same from many of her fellow survivors. That is why she is writing Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves after Stroke. As a professor, Debra studied and taught about how small, everyday actions can disrupt what’s normal, chip away at the status quo, and create positive change. That work led her to write Tempered Radicals, first published in 2001. ​Now, in a very different context, she lives by the message she previously taught. With small, deliberate efforts, and a lot of conscious choices, Debra continues her slow recovery, discovers more about herself, and shapes her new identities.

Years ago, Anne was working as a medical scheduler for the Oregon Health & Science University. She learned how hard it is for stroke survivors. Once discharged, the support is weak. Most survivors leave hospitals in a wheelchair. She wanted to do something to change. Anne quit her job. With the support of her husband, started forming the Backstrokes Support Group. A group that uses community music to help survivors recover. She found a professional musician to help. Today, Backstrokes has really grown to include 3 groups. They are reported by major local and national TV stations. In 2017, Anne and her team won the RAISE Award by the National Stroke Association. Listen to Anne and her group tell you their remarkable and fun journey.

In 2003, when Manny Gigante was 29, he suffered a stroke. He was playing paintball as a referee and suddenly felt weak. Manny tried to drive a stickshift car back home 10 miles away from where he was playing. He had no idea how he made it home. By the time he opened the door, Manny lost the strength in his leg and collapsed. Manny’s wife rushed him to the Emergency Room. Before the stroke, he was a network engineer and technology consultant in the Silicon Valley. He worked so hard that his working hours sometimes exceed 23 hours a day. After stroke, Manny spent 2 years in a wheelchair. In 2005, Manny lost his son due to an accident. Although he was supported by his wife and three other kids, Manny found it hard to adjust to this sequence of tragedy. He disconnected himself from his old friends and even family members. Manny sank into deep depression. However, he later realized there were so many things to be grateful for. Instead of playing sports with his kids, he could coach them to be better human beings. Local support groups turned out to be very helpful. Many years later, Manny has totally reinvented himself. He entered real estate business. Now he is working as a social network specialist for a number of startups in Silicon Valley. Manny is devoting a lot of time to help the local stroke community. Manny’s daughter who is 18, wants to become an Occupational Therapist because of her dad’s experience. Let Manny share his story with Cam. Connect with Manny on Twitter: @MannyGigante

On Nov 16, 2016 Susan Grimstead suffered a severe stroke. She did not feel well that day, and went upstairs after dinner to rest before she noticed something seriously wrong. She was rushed to hospital in ambulance. Since then her life has completely changed. Before stroke, Susan was always on the go. A lot of her time was spent with her 90 year old dad and my family. She would see them 4 out of 5 days a week. She never stayed at home during the day and spent most of her time out and about, specifically bargain shopping. The stroke left Susan with aphasia and numbness on the right. She learned how to drive with left foot pushing accelerator. She has been fighting to keep her on speech therapy. Susan has found it really hard to get information to help survivors recover. Susan’s family did a lot of research after her stroke and found a program in Chicago that was specific for Aphasia patients. The program is offered by Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. In April 2017, she went to the program, which helped her more than anything thus far with her speech. Susan was in therapy 8am-5pm five days a week for a month. The program hooked her up with many in the same boat. It also gave her a reason to keep going and try harder. Susan wants people in my area that have Aphasia to have a program like she did in Chicago. Her goal is to have more resources for adults with Aphasia especially for the Wilmington, NC area. Listen to her story. As Susan said it, never give up. Keep going!

Lucie Legaare is a champion Latin and Ballroom dancer in her category from Quebec. But do you know that she suffered a stroke at the age of 27. Doctors said she would not be able to walk again and would remain blind for the rest of her life. She She has not only fully recovered from her stroke, but also earned her MBA and started her own business, CHANGE Pyramid Solutions. The business offers training to Healthcare professionals on the benefit and practice of self-healing. Lucie owes her amazing recovery to the great power of self healing. She discovered her own method including meditation and sound therapy. Our body has a great potential to heal itself. Let Lucie tell you how she got it done.

If you are looking for an example how people successful turn stroke into an inspiring story of personal transformation and empowerment, look no further. July 17th, 1997, 5 day after her son turned 3, Julia Fox Garrison’s life changed forever. She was only 37 years old. A massive hemorrhagic stroke nearly took her life. According to Julia, she literally died on the operation table. Undeterred, Julia refused to give up. She has not only recovered amazingly but also taken on a new mission for her life. Julia has a lot to say and lessons to share about humor, inner strength, and self-determination. Harper-Collins published Julia’s best-seller Don’t Leave Me This Way (or when I get back on my feet you’ll be sorry). The book was selected for the top 7 Must Read books for anyone pursuing a nursing career. It also won the Applied Association of Therapeutic Humor (AATH) award for furthering their mission—humor in medicine, and was previously recognized by Reader's Digest as 'Today's Best Nonfiction'. Since the book’s national publication Julia is not only an author but a national motivational speaker and health care advocate promoting empowerment and humanity in all walks of life. She had numerous interviews with Dr Oz, Good Morning America, Oprah and Friends, People Magazine so on and so forth. This is how Dr. Oz depicts the essence of her message, “A stroke (literally) of luck helped Julia define the essence of her life. Her inspirational story can help us find ours.” Julia attributes her achievements to faith. In today's episode, Julia will share with our host Cam her remarkable story.

Dr Gary Steinberg and his team in Stanford has made a breakthrough discovery on stroke. After stroke, brain circuits are not dead but dormant. Injecting adult stem cells could awaken them resulting in dramatic recoveries. Stem cell therapies are offering a lot of hope to stroke survivors. There are many Americans who are willing to pay to get into the trials, could not get in, despite their willingness and ability to pay. Frank Plemons is one of them. Frank works as a Dell sales coach. He is an avid biker. Years ago, when biking with friends, Frank ran into an accident which nearly killed him. He suffered a head injury which led to a stroke. Frank is otherwise very strong and healthy. In the rehab, Frank did everything he can. He worked hard and achieved what was considered a wonderful recovery. However, Frank found the condition unacceptable. As a father of 4 year old son and a wonderful husband of a very supportive wife, Frank went on a journey to look for ways to restore himself. Frank has been following closely the stem cell trials especially the one led by Steinberg. Its breakthrough result reported this year got Frank very excited. However, getting access to it seems really hard. He has been very persistently working to get some of the best neurologists in Dallas to help him get into the Steinberg trial. Frank even got one of Dr Steinberg's friend to write a letter on his behalf. He got denied over and over again. Unable to get to any of the domestic trials, Frank instead went to Mexico twice, paying the cost out of his own pocket. One trip gave him remarkable results. In the process he even found a clinic in Belgrade willing to help him. Frank has found a new clinic in Mexico. He is going for the third time. In this interview, Frank shares his journey and what is missing in today’s stem cell process.

Stroke does not discriminate. It happens to everyone, even very young kids. Laurel Fontaine is a survivor who lives in North Attleboro, MA. She suffered a massive stroke at age of 11. Laurel staid in two hospitals for 4 months. Doctors said she would never walk or talk again. Undeterred, Laurel's parents enrolled her in Melodic to Nation Therapy in Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center 2009.In this process, her mom gave up her job to take care of Laurel. Her twin sister accompanied Laurel to the therapies. When she was first admitted, 23 people from her family went to visit her to wish her well. Many people donated to pay for Laurel's therapy. The efforts paid off. She was very successful that rehab. Laurel is working now. Today, Laurel will share her stories.

After experiencing severe TBI from a auto accident, Deborah Schlag knew she needed to reach out to help others through the process of recovery by restoring hope and be the example - life after TBI may not be what you had envisioned - it can be better, taking you places, meeting people you never dreamed, living a happy, healthy life. Her award winning book Becoming the Healer The Miracle of Brain Injury is packed full of helpful ideas for those going through medical trauma and those who care for them. She has since moved to North Carolina where she founded Awakenings: Center for Inner Healing & Empowerment - a non-profit spiritual retreat & healing center as well as developing healing tools like Pocket Change to help others with positive change in a fun and easy way. You may contact Deborah through the center at borah@AwakeningsCenterNC.com or through her facebook page.

Maureen Harrington is currently writing a book about the role of resilience and neuroplasticity in stroke recovery. The stories of survivors, caregivers, therapists and medical professionals show the way to, not only survive, but thrive post stroke. After over twenty years in journalism (TIME and PEOPLE magazines, Reuters and The Denver Post among others) Maureen found a passion project in the stroke community. She had first-hand experience with stroke. Her mother had a mild stroke with good recovery, but her paternal grandfather died from an aneurysm in his early thirties. "Stroke has always been a shadow hanging over my family". Listen to this interview. Mareen will discuss her unique book project, and how she connects to survivors and what she has learned about neuroplasticity and stroke recovery.

Dr Elizabeth Ann Lynch is an accomplished researcher for stroke. She is now a research fellow at the very famous Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health. She is specifically focused on improving health service delivery, particularly making rehabilitation more available to many survivors. Liz is also working to help researchers integrate new findings into new stroke rehabilitation programs. In this interview, Dr Lynch will share her perspective on in today's delivery. "We need to make it access to rehab more equitable" she told us. Dr Lynch started her career as a therapist. She is now working hard to connect research with the survivor community. Listen to Dr Lynch who provides a unique perspective about today's stroke care delivery and its challenges.

This episode is rebroadcast of a WBUR interview released on Nov 30, 2017. A neurosurgery team led by Dr Gary Steinberg has made a groundbreaking discovery: after stroke, the brain circuits went dormant instead of dead. Injecting adult stem cells into the brain can resurrect these circuits. In this interview with WBUR, Dr Steinberg discusses the discovery and their first clinic trial. The team is now running the second clinic trial which will end in 18 months. The result offers lots of hope to stroke, TBI, spinal cord injuries and other injuries.

In 2010, when Debra was a professor at Stanford, she suffered a severe stroke. she lost all movement of her right arm and leg; even worse, Debra lost all ability to communicate. While Debra won her struggle to survive, much of her identity – as a Stanford professor, a speaker and writer, an athlete, a mother and a wife – was taken from her. Debra’s mind was working but she was trapped inside a broken body, unable to do what she used to do. And maybe even worse, Debra couldn't tell anyone what she was experiencing. ​​ With hard work and a lot of help Debra regained enough mobility to again be independent, and have recovered some ability to speak. But she has come to accept that she will never again have all the capabilities she once had. ​​ Seven years later, Debra is still slowly recovering more of her abilities and is continuing to rebuild her identities. She has found few resources to help with the emotional piece of this journey, and has heard the same from many of her fellow survivors. That is why she is writing Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves after Stroke. As a professor, Debra studied and taught about how small, everyday actions can disrupt what’s normal, chip away at the status quo, and create positive change. That work led her to write Tempered Radicals, first published in 2001. ​Now, in a very different context, she lives by the message she previously taught. With small, deliberate efforts, and a lot of conscious choices, Debra continues her slow recovery, discovers more about herself, and shapes her new identities.

In December 2014 Michelle’s life was changed forever. She was driving on a duel carriageway that she used everyday. Later, she learned there was a Buzzard swooped down and smashed the windscreen of a small truck that was travelling behind her. The truck hit the back of Michelle’s company smart car really hard. She was pushed into the central reservation. The road was closed for hours. Michelle was airlifted to the Royal London Hospital. In the following years, as she recovers, Michelle became an active advocate for brain injury survivors. She runs a blog called Jumbled Brain, (https://www.jumbledbrain.com) with thousands of followers on Twitter.

This is a repost of one of our most popular episodes at the request of our members. It is widely believed that stroke recovery ends by the 18th month. In 2017, a case has been published that a Canadian survivor John Humphrey made significant recover on his motor skills 23 years after stroke. Hand in Hand Show had a special discussion with John and his doctor, Professor David Spence. How did it start? How did John notice that his affected hand start to move? Did he have any doubts? How did he reconnect with Dr David Spence? And many more. This is a very inspiring discussion. Stay tuned and join our special social media: www.strokefocus.net, and continue your discussion with John.

More than 9 year ago, David Karchem suffered a stroke on his way home. The former executive's life took an unexpected turn. In his recovery David found his new calling. He is now heavily involved with University of Southern California stroke research projects. In 2016, he got involved with the Strokefocus community after our launch. David wants to apply his own experience to drive stroke care to improve. He wants to challenge the myth that stroke recovery ends in 18 months. He uses his own experience, that he gained his smelling sense back in more than 6 years to prove that recovery extends much longer than the commonly believed timeline of only 18 months. A very resourceful individual, David built his own electric scooter. He even applied to the PhD program of Occupational Therapy of University of Southern California. Listen to David's interview. We wish Dave all the success!

Dr William Payne, a prominent surgeon in Chicago started MyOwnDortor.com, a telemedicine platform a few years ago. When he was a kid, William used to follow his dad, a successful doctor, to visit patients. Making it easy for patients and doctor to meet each other has always been his dream. Today, MyOwnDoctor.com is growing to become a successful platform to bring patients and doctors together. William assembled a team of healthcare professionals and What Sets MyOwnDoctor Product Apart: MyOwnDoctor has the ability to host fully interactive (e.g., audio, video, and media sharing for all attendees) informations sessions that inform and empower patients and caregivers to improve their own health. Its solution can host 5000+ attendees per online event. This is significant when applied to Population Health. Currently, on the market, this is the only Telehealth company with this capability; and it is hard to replicate. In addition, MyOwnDoctor has the ability to offer services like "Virtual Rounds" and/or to launch unique joint-ventures given we own the technology platform.

Dr Steve Cramer is a leading stroke researcher. He is Professor of Neurology at University of California Irvine Medical School, where he leads Neural Repair Lab or the Cramer Lab. Dr Cramer is cofounder of the Orange County Stroke Rehabilitation Network, which sponsors the Annual Stroke picnic and Annual Stroke Rehabilitation Continuing Education Workshop. This is a special interview about the 8th Annual Stroke Rehabilitation Continuing Education Workshop which is scheduled at Nov 18th 2017. Listen to learn more about the upcoming event.

Born in Nigeria, Ayo had a sweet childhood. His dad worked hard to provide a comfortable life for the family. In 1997, Ayo’s dad suffered his first stroke attack. He was lost on his way home. Someone picked him up finally and send him to hospital. Nobody contacted his home. After 30+ days, when his family finally found him, his condition was irreversible. The incident disrupted the whole family. Ayo’s mom had to take a job and work extra hours to support the family. Ayo later started a phone call business with the help of his uncle. 15 years later, Ayo’s dad passed away. This traumatic experience has motivated Ayo to set up the organization to help other survivors called Hope For Stroke. Hope for Stroke is a nonprofit stroke support organization founded in February 13, 2016 and registered in September 2016. It is based in Nigeria. The organization defines its audience as - People who have a history of stroke in their family line - People who have just had a stroke - People who have had stroke for some time. - People who are at high risk of having a stroke Listen to this episode. Find out how stroke support is provided in Nigeria. We wish Hope For Stroke the best luck.

In Episode 20, we interviewed Keith Taylor, a business owner and survivor. At that time, Keith is still working on his concept. Now, 6 months later, Keith's new business is ready to launch. Strength After Stroke is a company that was created by Keith Taylor for helping stroke survivors to regain their confidence and get their lives back on track. Keith has recently launched his signature program called the BASE Program. BASE is an acronym for Belief, Attitude, Strength, and Energy. In this latest segment of Hand in Hand podcast interviews, Cam Compton interviews Keith and his Business Coach/Manager, James Evanow from Pace Your Self Empowerment Systems. Evanow has been instrumental in getting the BASE Program and Strength After Stroke as he puts it, “untied from the dock and on her way towards its destination.” Strength After Stroke and the BASE Program are already helping many people to find a new course direction in their lives and to gain a new and revitalized path after dealing with such a life-changing event as a stroke. In this episode, you will learn more about the program, and what Keith has been able to accomplish with his coach James Evanow.

What is chiropractic neurology and is it a compliment to my stroke recovery? Meet Dr. Duffy, Dr. Patterson and Leslie of Innova Brain Rehabilitation. Their chiropractic neurology clinic outside of Atlanta, GA specializes in the treatment of brain injury, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases, without using medication or surgery. Chiropractic Neurologists use state of the art diagnostics to identify areas of the brain that have been compromised by injury or disorder, and then target these areas with oculomotor exercises, vestibular rehabilitation and other innovative modalities to create new pathways – pathways that lead to improved function, better cognitive thinking, or less pain. Tune in to learn more! You may find more about Innovabrain at https://www.innovabrain.com. Or contact the clinic at 770.485.6554

Statistics has shown that stroke survivors are far more concerned about challenges in adjustment to "the New Normal" than anything else. Communication is on the top of the list. It is not just aphasia. Survivors often find it hard to share their thoughts and experience with loved ones. The change is too traumatic and drastic. Making the situation more complex, not so many researchers are focusing on this. Now there is a researcher turning his focus on this issue. Bryan Abendschein, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Communication at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is specialized in researches that "exploring how relational partners encounter, manage, and discuss times of stressful change". Bryan has found that stroke survivors a unique community that deserves far more attention. Bryan is recruiting survivors to participate in his study. Our host Cam Compton recently joined Bryan's program. "It is thought provoking!" Cam commented. To learn about Bryan's research, listen to his interview with the Hand in Hand Show. To contact Bryan, email him at abendsc2@illinois.edu, or find more about his study and his information at https://bryanabendschein.weebly.com/

6 years ago, Amy Ladrigan was working as a subcontractor for a Fortune 500 company, while finishing her school when she suffered a stroke. Life has changed forever since then. In this episode, Amy shares her story. The struggles she went through. The confusions she had. The new job she took on after stroke. And her new blog “My Journey After My Stroke” blog (www.myjourneyaftermystroke.com). Amy now wants to work with a support group to share her experience and insights with those who were as confused and helpless. It was painful as Amy recalls it. She wants to help. It is a journey that will resonate with many. Listen to this episode, as our host Cam discusses life after stroke with Amy.

Our interview with Laredo Stroke Support Group Continues. In this episode, Bill, Deedee and Paola discuss with Nancy what they do to involve caregivers. What will be in the pipeline. Caregivers are crucial organizers especially in the early stages of recovery. As a support group, LSSG recognizes of the tremendous importance to engage and support caregivers. Listen to the dialogue between Nancy and the group leaders. They have many insights and tips to share.

Laredo Stroke Support Group (LSSG) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by stroke through meaningful group encouragement, local networking support, and free therapy services. Years ago, Bill Hrncir, a successful entrepreneur in Laredo suffered a massive stroke. At that time, there was no local support for stroke survivors in Laredo. As Bill got better, he and his wife started this group to help fellow survivors in Laredo. Today, LSSG has grown into a vibrant organization under its executive director Paola Huerta. In this interview, you will hear all the innovative ideas LSSG has adopted. The group not only offers art classes, gardening classes and free therapy services, but has come up creative ways to organize car pooling and local social networking. Let our host Nancy Weckwerth take you to this very eye opening interview.

Melissa is a caregiver and one of the leaders of Unlimited Possibilities, the largest stroke, TBI and aneurysm support group in Georgia. Melissa has been taking care of her husband Ron Burnard for seven and half years since his stroke. Today, she will share her experience and perspective as a caregiver. Additionally, Melissa has been traveling with Ron. We will learn from her tips and perspectives of traveling after stroke.

A veteran therapist, Tim Readman is the Executive Director of the Stroke Recovery Association of British Columbia and Professor at the UBC School of Rehabilitation Sciences in the Faculty of Medicine. He was also recently appointed as Senior Manager for Stroke Recovery with March of Dimes Canada. Tim graduated from the University of Northumbria, England, as an occupational therapist. He has been working with health care organizations in the non-profit sector since 1996 mainly in the field of organizational development. In this interview, Tim is pretty vocal about the fact that despite remarkable progress achieved in the acute stage, not enough has been done to help survivors adjust to the new life and help them regain their functions post discharge. Most of survivor's recovery is to be realized after not before discharge. Making support available post discharge deserves more attention. Let Tim tell you why there is such a disconnect. Aside from his passion to help with stroke survivors, Tim is also a professional musician, producer and music journalist. Listen to Tim to find out his fun side!

AVERT, which stands for A Very Early Rehabilitation Trial for Stroke, is the world's largest randomized multicenter trial conducted in stroke rehabilitation to date. It compares very early mobilization within 24 hours after symptom onset with usual care in patients with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke without significant coexisting comorbidity or premorbid disability. The trial has recruited 2000 survivors to participate. It develops and tests various modules to find out what works. Hand in Hand Show is very lucky to have Professor Julie Bernhardt who leads the program to share with us the progress of AVERT. In this episode, Professor Bernhardt will share with us, including: What is AVERT? How did it start? Which countries are involved? What have the researchers found? etc etc. Additionally, she will share with us findings on how environment impacts a stroke survivor's recovery. Listen to what Professor Bernhardt has to share!

Rated as the best neurologist in Laredo Texas, Dr Fernando Sanchez has been practicing neurology with Laredo Medical Group since 1997. He is an active supporter of the Laredo Stroke Support Group (LSSG), a vibrant nonprofit organization dedicated to survivors and families. Dr Sanchez would like to share his perspectives with survivors. Does the recovery end within a short window? What are the exciting new developments that is coming for stroke care? What are the biggest challenges to stroke care today? What advice survivors should get before leaving hospital? This special episode is brought to you by Laredo Stroke Support Group. Listen to what Dr Sanchez has to say.

Supporting stroke survivors is a local business. But in the East Bellevue, there was no such group until two stroke survivors, Laurie Byrd and Liz Rasmussen decided to take action. As part of recovery, they reflected a lot and completed a great deal of research on the resources available to people, their friends and family members after a stroke and found the need for more outreach. The “Overlake Stroke Support Group-What’s Next” was born in 2014. In the process of creating this support group, Jennifer Kurtz, the speech pathologist who treated them agreed to help. Listen to the story of this young and vibrant group.

A father of five, and a former basketball player, on December 23, 2014, Lee suffered from his first stroke. He woke up incoherent and unable to speak. Lee had no idea what was happening. He willed himself to his feet and called out to his wife to no avail. It was only until Lee was halfway down the stairs that his wife saw him. He will never forget the fear and horror that he saw in her eyes. His wife quickly called 911 and he was transported to the hospital. Lee experienced two more strokes by Christmas morning and by the New Years my journey began. The progress for the former college basketball player has been slow, painful, confusing, filled with self-doubt and denial at times. These obstacles have placed Lee in a position to help other "stroke warriors" who are trying to cope with life after a stroke(s). Today, he counter stroke with LIFE, LOVE and HOPE! Lee discovered the key to rehabilitation is to live life pass its limitations, love people pass their limitations, and have faith pass your limitations. Lee is now a successful motivational speaker. He started his organization Counter Stroke. This is how Lee leads his people to answer the challenge of stroke.

It is widely believed that stroke recovery ends by the 18th month. In 2017, a case has been published that a Canadian survivor John Humphrey made significant recover on his motor skills 23 years after stroke. Hand in Hand Show had a special discussion with John and his doctor, Professor David Spence. How did it start? How did John notice that his affected hand start to move? Did he have any doubts? How did he reconnect with Dr David Spence? And many more. This is a very inspiring discussion. Stay tuned and join our special social media: https://www.strokefocus.net, and continue your discussion with John.

Do you know the amazing things service dogs can do to survivors? Do you know the difference between a service dog or therapy dog? There is a great company in Atlanta doing this in a unique way and attracting people from all over. Join us and learn about this wonderful business and what she does.

Rosanna Radding was trained as a artist. Stroke hit her 22 years ago. It totally changed the course of her life. After told by doctors that she could not recover much, Rosanna refused to accept the conclusion. She decided to find new meaning of her life. She started with cooking, then turned her experience into a business designing and making kitchenware for people with only one hand. Listen to this remarkable story. How a stroke could turn a woman into a flourishing entrepreneur. Do not give up. Yes you can! 1’00’’ how did Rosanna come to the idea of One Hand Can 2’47’ Experience with OT 3’50’’ changes in Stroke rehab and care 4’40’’ You would not get anything back after 6 months? 6’10’’ Rosanna’s stroke story 7’04’’ Aside from cooking, what else does Rosanna do? 8’52’’ When did One Hand Can Start? 9’51’’ A little about Rosanna 10’05’’ Where to find Rosanna’s cooking video Gallery? 10’53 How many products does Rosanna offer? 12’10’’ How did Rosanna turn her web site into a business? 14’20’’ How is Rosanna’s design different from others’? 15’20’’ How to find Rosanna’s online store? 16’45’’ Don’t give up.

There are a few things caregivers can do to find joy in caregiving. Caregivers play a crucial role in stroke and TBI recovery. Nancy Weckwerth discusses with the Hand in Hand Show what can a caregiver do to find joy in the process. And why it is important to find joy for caregivers.

Sue Mustalish RN, BHS, HNC is founder of Solflower Health Consultants, a holistic health practice integrating mindfulness, wellness, reflexology and end of life matters. Her forty years of nursing experience in a wide variety of areas and her mindfulness practice inform her health philosophy. She believes each individual has the capacity to recognize and effect their own health and wellness potential. Listen to Sue tell you about Integrative medicine. 0’55’’ What does Solflower Health Consultant do? 2’36’’ What made Sue to start Solflower Health Consultants? 4’24’’ What is integrative medicine? 7’50’’ why integrative medicine? 10’11’’ The difference between integrative medicine and western medicine? 15’25’’ How is the attitude changing towards integrative medicine? 16’28’’ How did Sue discover Mindfulness? 20’00’’ How can mindfulness help caregivers? 22’20’’ How to find a good mindfulness coach? 25’40’’ How does Sue offer her consultancy? 26’26’’ What does Sue want people to know?

Roberta was a stay home mom, a farmer and a bartender when stroke hit her and totally disrupted her life. How is she recovering? What support is she getting? How is she adjusting to the new life? Listen to Hand in Hand Show interview with Roberta. 0’43’ Life before the stroke and stroke 2’11’’ Recovery after stroke 4’44’’ outpatient therapy 5’30’’ progress to return to normal life 6’00 cooking at home 10’34’’ talking about kids 14’20’’ adjustments for kids 15’20 stroke support both locally and online 17’48’’ wrap up

Herb Silverman suffered a stroke at the age of 27. In the first year after stroke, aphasia kept him from using more than 2 words. 27 years has passed. Herb regained his speech, went to school again and retired from a successful career with New York Life Insurance. He has been featured in numerous articles, as well as on radio and TV, including a story on CNN, “Laughter is a Healing Tool”. Presently, as an Advisory Council board member for the National Aphasia Association, Herb promotes public education and support services to assist people with aphasia and their families. Additionally, an alum of the University of Chicago (Go Maroons!), he was selected to serve as the Volunteer Regional Coordinator and President for the greater Atlanta area. He is also a member of the Emory University Goizueta Business School Alumni association. Listen to Herb's remarkable story. Find his blog at https://hwsilverman.wordpress.com 1’00” Herb’s stroke story and aphasia. 3’20’’ How did Herb overcome aphasia and become a public speaker? 6’32’’ How did Herb adjust to having a stroke at the young age? 11’31’’ Learning new skills and even start a new career after stroke. 13’37’’ Excel in reinventing ourselves. 14’33’’ How did Herb explore new career with great success in New York Life Insurance after stroke? 15’55’’ Featured on CNN. 16’30’’ How to find Herb’s blog? 18’09’’ Don’t look backwards. Look forward. 19’30’’ The power of adaptation. 20’38’’ The Silverman family. 22’14’’ Life is great. Wrap up.

Do you know there is an influential researcher advocating more interactions between researchers and survivors? Do you know she is working hard to make her research more applicable to survivors? She is finding answers for questions such as how does sedentary behaviors affect survivors. How to make exercises feasible to survivors struggling with mobility challenges? Will group therapies help? What are the typical steps of a stroke research? How do researchers validate their results? Listen to Dr Carolie English. You will learn a lot through this interview. 1’24’’ What led Coralie Into Research. 3’50’’ Steps for a typical research project. 4’50’’ The design of tests. 7’00’’ The art of balance, pros and cons of being inclusive and exclusive in samples. 10’30’’ How are results validated? 11’08’’ How to avoid bias through randomization? 12’11’’ Example of randomization. 14’55’’ The best and worst part of being a researcher. 16’28’’ The excitement of working with researchers around the world. 18’15’’ The sedentary life style research. 20’55’’ What about those who can not exercise that much? 21’43’’ A new approach: 30 min exercise a week? 28’12’’ Working with TIA patients to minimize the risk of major stroke later on. 28’49’’ Standardization through International Steering Committee. 32’58’’ Studies on group therapies. 39’30’’ The impact of seeing others in a group relearning the same thing. 40’55’’ The biggest challenge to researchers – research money. 41’59’’ The importance for researchers to engage survivors.

Keith was a business owner about to travel to Seattle when his family noticed something was wrong. Keith suffered a stroke. He had to sell his ownership and went on a journey of transformation. Keith is now building a training program to help survivors wanting to get back to business. Listen to Keith's story. 0’44’’ Keith’s story. 3’00’’ the hardest part of having a stroke. 4’34’’ The experience of driving. 7’40’’ BASE program. A training program Keith is building. 11’35’’ Why a survivor can provide unique perspectives in recovery? 13’07’’ The challenge of going back to work. 15’17’’ Depression – how does BASE address that? 20’11’’ Finding a new purpose for life after stroke. 23’00’’ How to find Keith’s program?

Kati was flourishing as a supermodel when a devastating stroke derailed her life and career at the age of 21. Since then, 95% of her body has been paralyzed. Kati overcame her early depression. She rebuilt her life and met her wonderful husband Henning Vander Hoeven. Together they blog on Huffington Post, present at TED Talks, and actively championing for stroke survivors worldwide. In this episode, Henning and Kati share their remarkable lives in detai. How they transformed their own lives as life transforms them.: 0’45’’ Intro of Kati and Henning. 1’27’’ What Happened to Kati? 3’00’’ Were there signs of stroke? 4’21'' The impaired mobility. Lost connection between brain and the body. 5’10’’ Kati’s videos of her own therapies. 6’30’’ New life as a blogger and public speaker. 7’30’’ Awareness of Locked in Syndrome. 9’00'' Make something meaningful out of tragedy. 9’22’’ Imagine That - TED Talk presentations. 10’00’’ Biggest challenge in Kati’s journey – acceptance and paradigm shift. 12’40’’ Adaptation. 13’04’’ How did Kati and Henning meet? 15’05’’ How did Kati communicate via computer" 17’27’’ How did Kati get out of her initial depression? 19’21’’ Traveling together. 20’40’’ Where are the opportunities to improve stroke care? 24’10’’ Advice to caregivers. 25’53’’ How does the audience react to Kati's presentations? 27’50’’ What does the audience often ask? 29’17’’ Kati cooks at home. 30’08’’ What is the most memorable experience in traveling? 30’38’’ Recent trip to London. 33’41’’ Kati’s blog about rising to challenge. 35’20’’ How did stroke transform Kati and Henning 36’53’’ How many languages do Kati and Henning speak?

Dr. John C. Kilburn Jr. is the Associate Vice President for Research and Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Texas A&M International University. He has been a stroke survivor since November 27, 2001. In this episode, John shares his story and his advice to survivors and caregivers. 0’48, Early Life, and family history. 2’48’’ Life before stroke. 4’30’’ How did stroke change John’s life? 6’40’’ Were there any signs of stroke? 6’58’’ Memories of what happened on the day of stroke. 10’34 Memory of the initial days in the hospital 12’48 Initial recovery. 13’03 John’s remarkable mother in law. How did she help? 14’30 Initial therapies. 18’07 How can marital counselors be helpful? 20’53 “You do not look like you had a stroke” 22’45’’ Health after stroke 25’50’’ Advice to survivors 30’10'' Live life! 31’03'' Message to caregivers 34’04'' We are not alone 35’10'' Thank you! Laredo Stroke Support Group

Creating a "Culture of Possibility" is the vision of Our Heart Speaks (OHS) and its founder Keith W. L. Rafal, MD, MPH. In this episode, Dr Rafal discusses his philosophy of creating a "Culture of Culture of Possibility.” He explores a new mindset and paradigm shift. This interview digs deeper into the work and vision of OHS. Dr. Rafal is the Chief of Rehabilitation and Restorative Care at Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island and a Clinical Assistant Professor at Brown University. He is the founder and director of Healing Choices, P.C. an integrative medicine private practice who specializes in drug free treatment in collaboration with other practitioners for patients living with chronic pain, fibromyalgia and other chronic medical conditions. He has been the Director of the Fibromyalgia Program at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Rhode Island and has had additional training in the areas of behavioral medicine, homeopathy and western herbal medicine, which he has been able to successfully incorporate into his practice at Healing Choices along with rehabilitation and nutritional approaches. Dr. Rafal is a proud supporter of many organizations including Hand in Hand: A Center for Jewish-Arab Education in Israel that builds peace, coexistence and equality through a network of integrated, bilingual schools for Jewish and Arab children. He is an advisory board member of HeadsUp Providence, a non-profit organization that serves the underserved populations, including the homeless, with a primary focus on health, education and the arts.

Molly is a senior Exercise Science and Spanish student at the University of South Carolina and will be attending medical school at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in the fall. She became involved with the stroke community during her junior year when she volunteered in the research lab of Dr. Stacy Fritz. Dr. Fritz and her physical therapy students were working on a research project called the NExT Gym, which was a pilot program for stroke survivors to workout directly with physical therapy students in a safe gym environment to improve their strength, flexibility and cardiovascular health in the hopes of preventing another stroke. Through that volunteer opportunity Molly connected with several stroke survivors with hemiparesis who were more than happy to demonstrate how they adapted everyday items, like shoelaces, to make their lives easier. Following that conversation she decided to create the TIPPS website for her Honors College senior thesis project. TIPPS, which stands for Tools & Inventions for/from People Post-Stroke is an online database that’s meant to be a resource for all members of the stroke survivor community and their caretakers where everyone can share their “life hacks” with other people who may be experiencing the same difficulties and might benefit from the creativity and experiences of others. The website can be found at tipps-sc.com and any new submissions, comments or suggestions can be emailed to tipps.sc@gmail.com.

In 2012, LeaAnn was enjoying her life. She was a professional caregiver who loved her job. She was traveling in Central America enjoying the weather and food, when she suddenly collapsed. Doctors found an issue with her heart. They placed a mechanical valve in her. LeaAnn gradually recovered. It seemed life was back on track again. In Sept 2014, LeaAnn went for a dental surgery. Unexpectedly the surgery triggered an infection. After the dental surgery, she started to throw up and had flu like symptoms for a month. LeaAnn went to see doctors who said it was just the flu. One night, she went to bed one night with a strange headache. LeaAnn woke up the next morning and fell to her left side. When she woke up, it was in a hospital. LeaAnn had a stroke. Life has been changed forever after that. One thing will never change- her passion as a caregiver. In her recovery, LeaAnn set up a Facebook support group. She also started working with Strokefocus to improve the stroke care. Listen to her episode.

Occupational therapy can be repetitive and boring. Not with Dr Rachel Proffitt whose passion is designing fun games for stroke survivors. As Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Missouri, her research focuses on developing, testing, and implementing virtual reality-based interventions for adults and older adults with neurological conditions. She has extensive experience in interdisciplinary setting with computer scientists and engineers and was previously the Director of the Game Based Rehab Lab at the Institute for Creative Technologies at the University of Southern California (USC). In this interview, Dr Proffitt shares her work and the experience that led her to become a passionate "game nerd" working for survivors.

The Penn State Hershey's Stroke Survivors and Thrivers Group is a vibrant stroke and TBI support group. Kathy Morrison is the leader of the group. A nurse by training, Kathy emphasizes that the group should work hard to understand what survivors and caregivers truly need. Additionally, Kathy's team has done a brave experiment to separate survivors and caregivers in some of their meetings. The result is very eye opening. In her interview with Hand in Hand, Kathy shared her learning and challenges local groups face.

On June 1, 2010, Peter Corfield's life changed forever. A brain aneurysm unknown to him ruptured. The former PE and Drama teacher, a happy Englishman living in France suffered a stroke. Peter refused to settle with his injury. In the following years, he worked hard to recover. He wrote a trilogy of his stroke and recovery. He built up the longest stroke recovery diary on the Internet. Peter has been videotaping his daily journey on YouTube for more than 2 years now and it is still growing. When Dr Jill Bolte Taylor published her groundbreaking work: My Stroke of Insight in 2009, she said there was no documented work on a full journey of stroke recovery before her book. Peter has certainly changed that. Not only there is now a record, it is in video. Peter loves life. He is raising fish. Every penny he gets in his books sales will go to the ARNI Institute, a British neurology rehab institute founded by Dr Tom Balchin. Listen to the fascinating story of Peter.

In 2015, Wyetta Dopson suffered a stroke. There was a delay in the process to send her to the hospital. 2 years later, Wyetta has turned her stroke and recovery into a book, Cry in the Dark. She is writing her second book while running a stroke support group on Facebook. She believes being positive is essential to life after stroke. Faith has given her new life meanings she never thought before. Listen to Wyetta's story. Maybe buy her book.

8 years ago, when driving through an intersection David Karchem suffered a stroke.  David was making a left turn at a light. He suddenly suffered an intense headache. He couldn't press the clutch of his car's manual transmission, so he coasted through the intersection the best he could while the other cars honked and swerved around him.  Dave wrote a note 'CALL911' before passing out. When he woke up in the hospital, Karchem learned that he suffered a right-brain ischemic stroke. Two blood clots over the right side of his brain had left him paralyzed on his left side. A third clot near the back of his brain, where the visual cortex is located, left him struggling to see and unable to taste or smell anything.  In the 8 years since then, Dave has built a rich life. He volunteers for the University of Southern California Stroke Program. He earned a master’s degree. He also saw many of his grandchildren born in the period. Let Dave take you through his remarkable journey. We recorded this session to celebrate his anniversary of his new life. Go Dave!

Meri Kelly, inventor of her unique series of color books to help caregivers got her idea when being a caregiver of her mom. Meri's mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. She decided to become a full time caregiver for her mom. In a rare occasion, Meri discovered the unique power of color books to calm caregivers down. Stress relief is crucial to caregivers as well as people they are taking care of. Strokefocus has used her color books with a group of caregivers for stroke survivors. The response was overwhelmingly positive. In this episode, Meri also discusses her experience of self publishing. Find her book at https://www.amazon.com/Here-Love-Coloring-Book-Inspirational/dp/153949439X. Check Meri's site out at http://colormecaring.com

Host Cam Compton and Guest, Nancy Weckwerth (Author of “Don’t Stop the Music: Finding the Joy in Caregiving”) discuss the role of Caregivers for adults with catastrophic illness. As a caregiver, Nancy explains the top 5 challenges of Caregiving for a loved one and how she learned to solve those issues.

Exercise greatly helps stroke recovery. With regard to exercise, survivors are faced with some common challenges. First, what exercises are helpful? Second, how to find a program both accessible and affordable? Dr Kristin McNealus launched Everybody Fitness Online with a program designed for survivors, especially those not in major cities. It does not require a contract. By paying an affordable fee, members can access through the Internet exercises carefully designed to meet their needs. Everybody Fitness Online provides individualized coaching and exercise design to address specific needs of its members. In this episode, Kristin talks about her program. She explains how exercises can address one side weakness and how should survivors manage exercise intensity. To learn more, listen to this very informative episode.

Strokefocus and its podcast, Hand in Hand is today's topic. In this episode, Cam interviews Nancy, Alison and Daniel to understand how Strokefocus started. Strokefocus started as Wohaula. In 2012, Daniel suffered a brainstem stroke before turning 41. Two fellow survivors made a tremendous difference to his recovery. One was Alison Shapiro. In 2002, Alison survived 2 brainstem strokes. Through her own remarkable recovery, she discovered that survivors could significantly improve the recovery outcome by effectively engaging themselves. She developed a program to help survivors. Daniel found Alison through the Internet. Alison coached Daniel in the most critical stage of his recovery. They never met in person. Yet the support significantly changed the course of Daniel's recovery outcome. Inspired by their own experience, in 2014, Daniel, his wife Hong, Alison and some friends started Wohaula, which meant I have survived in Mandarin. It is also known now as Strokefocus. In building Wohaula, Daniel found Nancy Weckwerth, who is a caregiver and author. Nancy devoted 26 years to take care of her husband John, who suffered a massive stroke at the height of his musical career. The team discussed their journey, Strokefocus and its unique philosophy. They also talked about its podcast program the Hand in Hand Show. Listen to episode to find out more...

Kelly Campbell leads the Unlimited Possibilities Support Group for Stroke and Brain Injury Survivors and Caregivers. She is also the board of director at the Brain Injury Association of Georgia. In the interview, Kelly discusses with Cam and Nancy how she and her partner Laura have grown the group by treating it like a business. Low engagement is a challenge prevalent to many brain injury support groups. How does Kelly and Laura deal with the problem and improve engagement with her own people? Listen to the episode.

Many have been told that there is no rehabilitation for eyes. Dr. Roz Coleman tells the Hand in Hand Show that this is not true. Dr. Roz is an optometrist who specializes in vision therapy for stroke survivors. Kenny and Dr. Roz discuss ways the eyes and vision can be impacted by stroke. Dr. Roz discusses how the brain can heal itself so finding ways to assist the brain in this healing is definitely do-able in many situations. Dr. Roz can assist online, or in person. She describes her online sessions.

Cam and Nancy talk about the things that a Caregiver needs to know to be an effective Caregiver. Nancy’s first recommendation is to know exactly what makes their survivor happy to provide quality of life. Awareness of one’s own personal skills is an important tool in the caregiver’s pocket for being a better caregiver. Nancy describes the value of respite and several other tools. Nancy’s belief in staying positive at all times is what allows her to maintain her caregiving role for now, 26 years.

The Hand in Hand show is a show designed and run by stroke survivors and caregivers. It is part of Strokefocus, formerly known as Wohaula. In this episode, co-host Kenny Carbullido talks about his own story. Kenny used to be a policeman and a comedian. At the age of 38, he suffered a stroke. He was in a wheelchair for over a year. In spite of enormous adversity, Kenny did not lose his optimism. He recovered 95% (his own estimate) and is now back to stage as a comedian. Listen to Kenny’s story.