It's been nearly two years since my stroke. The recovery process was a hard one for me. I've seen more doctors in two years than I've seen my whole life. I've had to re-learn how to do a few things. I'm proud that during my recovery time: I published two novels, created this blog, designed a quiet green space outside my house after eight years, and finally, took my children on vacation.
I'm thankfully every day that I'm alive, am able to continue raising my family and that I didn't lose my mind, my memories, or my speech. As a writer that would have probably killed me more than anything else. Using my imagination to express my opinion or see a novel storyline through is just part of my world; it's the way I work.
During these past two years, my health has improved. I've lost weight. The left side of my body is getting stronger and parts are moving again. I'm still able to bowl on Tuesday nights with my team. I am back on the road of independence.
However, there were some unexpected challenges. I had to have a MAJOR blood transfusion, needed surgery, had difficulty breathing, and my daughters had to get over their fear that when I went to a hospital it didn't mean that I was getting admitted.
Currently, I'm going through a divorce after 14 years of marriage because my stroke proved to be "too much" for my spouse. I find this ironic because of the years my spouse was either jobless or underemployed and I made sure our family was alright. So much for better or worse, in sickness and in health. Guess, I'm the only one that took the marriage vows seriously.
Life's funny. Despite all its challenges, I'm here. I'm still standing. As a friend of mine said, they would never know what I've been through because it doesn't show on my face. I'm thankful for that.
Posted By: Marsha Jones
Friday, January 15th 2010 at 9:18AM
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