Benni

I woke up the morning of May 27th 2016 with a stumbly, unbalanced gait. When I spoke, my hubs said "you are $#/@÷× up, I'm calling 911." My speech was slurry. My diagnosis was a stroke called CVA, most likely caused by high blood pressure and high cholesterol. On the 2nd day, in the hospital, I was completely paralyzed on the right side, except the facial muscles. On the bright side, I am left-handed.

I spent until August 15th in the hospital and rehab. I can now walk (very slowly) with a quad cane and wearing an AFO. As of this writing, I still have no movement in my right arm, and the weight of it hanging down has caused a dislocated shoulder -- causing considerable pain. I can speak well, only slurring when very tired. Mentally, I'm just as forgetful as I was pre-stroke but have all my faculties intact. 

I'm 65 with 2 daughters in their 40's, 4 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and the most loving husband (of 3 years) who is trying his best at being my caregiver. 

I have many changes and challenges ahead. Hopefully I'll meet them with the determination and stubbornness I'm known for.