I have had 1 modarate stroke and 2 smaller strokes since May of 2003. I have small artery disease as well. I can tell you from experience that to try to explaine what it is like to have even a mild stroke is all most impossible to do. The last time I went to the hospital she yelled at me for being a pain and interupting her precious evening, I ended up in ICU for 4 days with a nitro drip in my arm to help get my blood pressure down. They then placed stints 11 and 12 in my femoral artery.

I dont want sympathy, or anyone saying oh poor William. I came home from my Modrate stroke with drop foot and personality changes I still dont understand. My wife was like so get over it , why dont you start being like you were. No attempt at empathy because she didnt have the slightest idea what was happing to me and I was unable to explaine.

I know my wife well enough to know she turns her fear into anger. But she didnt take the time to read up on strokes are try to comfort me In a real time of need. I was just the guy that wasnt bringing home a pay check. Like you I needed support from my life partner which never came. I got more ok you had a stroke so what

you've had a week to recover so whats wrong with you?

I have learned that some people actually take an active role in the recovery proess. They talk to the Doctors and everything. I know it sounds to good to be true, but it really happens. Some people are just not equiped to be caregivers.

and looking for support from them is an exercise in futility. You are just a disappointment becaue you inconvienced their lives.

The only people I have gotton support and understanding from are the people in here, The ones that have been there and understand what you have survivored.

OH and one last thing Cindy the small vessel disease they talk about could be caused by diabetes. Have you been checked for it recently??

I have written a few posts on what its been like to have a stroke. Maybe one of thoes or other articals or posts in here might help him gain a better understanding of what you have been thru,

William