ajcee

Stroke Survivor - male
  • Posts

    36
  • Joined

  • Last visited

About ajcee

Shared Information

  • Stroke Anniversary (first stroke)
    02-02-2002
  • Stroke Anniversary (second stroke)
    0
  • Stroke Anniversary (third stroke)
    0
  • Facebook URL
    http://n/a
  • How did you find us?
    Google Search

Registration Information

  • First Name
    anthony
  • State
    new york

Recent Profile Visitors

2,716 profile views

ajcee's Achievements

Associate Member

Associate Member (2/10)

  1. Happy Anniversary ajcee!

  2. Happy Anniversary ajcee!

  3. Thanks for your thoughts, Dean. I get the feeling that things are going better for you. Despite the anxiety with your flat tire prior to your meeting, was your meeting with the internist and 3 therapists eventful? Are you scheduled for a followup with your cardiologist in the near future? I get the impression that your medical care is less chaotic than I first thought. Please keep in touch. Best regards, AJ
  4. Hi Christina, I'm sorry that you have suffered so much at such a young age. On the other hand, a 90% improvement in only 7 months is remarkable and indicative of a continued recovery and a likelihood that it may not be long before you will be driving again. I am slightly older than you by 63 years. Between my age and the injury incurred by experimental charletans, there is little reason to believe you will be faced with similar difficulties.You seem to have supportive family and friends and a bright mind with a promising career. To experience some anxiety about getting behind the wheel at this point is understandable. The State funding I received for twenty driving lessons by BOCES is VESID, a NY department that provides assistance for the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities. I would not have been aware of this organization, except that I was informed at the end of my rehabilitation. It appears their assistance is for persons of all ages. It's too bad it is not a national program, but CA being a fairly progressive State may have a similar program
  5. Although I enjoyed driving and making cross country trips, I had no choice but to surrender my license 7 years ago. This decision left me without access to transportation other than a county jitney that offers curbside service for disabled individuals within the county, but usually takes sixty or ninety minutes to and from the the destination for short trips which by car took me 15 minutes. It wasn't till a year after my discharge from rehab that I felt able to drive again, but required driver training despite more than fifty years experience. I was fortunate that the State paid for the training, but relearning didn't come easily, in fact it felt no different than when I first learned how to drive. When I was qualified, I kept my driving limited to familiar local areas, but I never again felt the comfort and ease as I had prior to my stroke. It wasn't until the day when I had an appointment for a procedure with a neuro-otologist located 55 miles from my home in another county. I had no choice but to drive to his office, despite the weather of consistent heavy rain and fog with poor visibility. Upon my first meeting with the doctor, I felt proud that I dared to venture the distance and weather conditions without mishap. But the feeling of accomplishment vanished when the doctor, noting the manifestation of my vertigo and ataxia symptoms, stated I should not be driving. My mind flashed to the many occasions of irate drivers honking at me as I unknowingly cut them off. How, even as I searched for his office, I would have to leave my car in the heavy rain to read the street signs which I can't discern from a moving vehicle. I had to agree with the doctor, I was a menace as a driver. My problem is not only of lessening vision and depth perception, but a brain of less acuity and memory gaps. I also thought that in the event of an accident, an investigation would lead back to this doctor and his warning and that I never reported my stroke condition to the MVB, leaving me vulnerable to misdemeanor or worse charges. After my second visit with the doctor. A procedure of a gentamycin injection to destroy the vestibular nerve and obliterate the balance on my right side, became a deciding factor. I lost any ability to drive and reverted to the use of a walker. I might add that I also have double vision, and after rehab, I was fitted with prismatic lenses, which are a blessing. They are fine as long as the head is kept front facing and still, but the double vision recurs with side glances. I will not be able to drive again and feel like a castaway on an islet. But at least I will not cause injury or worse to others or myself. To be able to drive again after losing the ability is something to be wished for, but there is more to be considered than stepping on the gas or brake pedal.
  6. ajcee

    folly down

    Sorry to read of your fall, Dave.. Luckily, nothing was broken. Wish you a fast recovery. Regards, AJ
  7. ajcee

    A Mistaken Premise

    Hi Dean, Thank you for your reply to my post,”A Mistaken Premise.” Your description of our society of a past when individuals took pride in their respective positions and the sharing of empathy with other fellow beings, leading to our present chaotic and self-indulging ways, with little care for others was succinctly and precisely expressed. I admire your honesty and humor that appears in your posts and regret the painful and frightening experiences that you have recently encountered. While your recent decision to stop or minimize your medicinal intake has brought about an amazing decrease of symptoms, it is evidence of the harm that prescribed drugs can create. However, caution is advised, and seeing a cardiologist on January 8th will hopefully bring some clarification and proper treatment to stave off the possibility of further strokes. If you do indeed have atrial fibrillation, it is most likely that that you will be prescribed coumadin, which is still considered the gold standard. While Pradaxa, Xarelto and Eliquis are recent FDA approved blood thinners that don't require frequent blood clotting testing or dietary restrictions, they are more difficult to stanch should bleeding occur, making them more hazardous if one falls or experiences an injury. You are still young (32 years my junior) and obviously talented and gifted in several fields. Having these talents must make it extremely difficult to cope with the inability to perform as before being stroke stricken. Hopefully, your recent breakthrough will continue with a stop to future strokes. The very best of luck to you. AJ
  8. ajcee

    A Mistaken Premise

    Perhaps this should be titled,”Passing the Buck.” or, ” The Ole Boys' Club. or,”Strange Gods Before Us.” . Much of what follows appeared in my prior posts. I believe in the context below, there is justification for all of the above titles to describe my experiences with neurologists and other neuro-physicians. In all fairness, there were a few doctors who really tried hard to be of help, but far too many who just sloughed me off with a shrug. While in recent years we have learned some of the workings of the brain, there remains an ocean of the unknown. Other than diagnosing within the limits of current knowledge or prescribing the few medications that may offer a small degree of help, there isn't much that a neurologist can do to assist his patient other than spewing forth labels and diagnoses in medical jargon puzzling to the patient. I, in turn, must accept my own failings for not seeking a second opinion before the surgery that seriously worsened my condition, or not;testing the premise that vestibular training would put me on the road to recovery, which so many of the neurologists suggested. _____________________________________________ My brain stem stroke anniversary at age 75 is now thirteen years. I progressed from being unable to situp in bed, to wheelchair, to walker and finally a single point cane during the first year, as a result of determination and conscientious physical therapists. However, despite strengthening of my right side and general body tone, I plateaued with my vertigo and ataxia problems and decided to undergo vestibular training which was recommended by a few neurologists I had seen. After a few sessions, my therapist noticed a horizontal shifting of my eyes and I was tested and found to be nystagmus positive. I was referred to a neuro-optometrist for possible improvement and the hope that I can resume the balance training. Unfortunately, my vertigo, double vision, nystagmus and balance problems did not improve with the optical training. I continued seeing neurologists and other neuro- specialists, all of whom were of a same decision after two or three sessions, that they could not help me; with a majority suggesting that vestibular training was the only alternative. I revisited the neuro-optometrist who referred me to a neurologist whom he stated was the most capable in the county and most apt to help me. During my first and only visit with the referred neurologist, I sensed immediately that he was obnoxious and had a God complex, but decided to to follow his suggestions after he explained that my vertigo and balance problems were the result of stroke damage to the right ear vestibular nerve which is garbling messages from the brain, thereby causing vertigo and balance complications. He recommended a procedure that included 3 injections of gentamycin over three weeks that will destroy the troublesome nerve which will remove any right side balance but will be compensated by the left side of my brain after a period of vestibular training. I was elated as his suggestion sounded logical and I was given hope for the first time. He stated the only risk involved is the possibility of losing hearing in my ear, which is trivial considering the gains I will experience and referred me to a neuro-otologist. I searched the Web for information regarding the procedure which was best explained by Dr. Timothy C. Hain, a highly regarded pioneer who utilized the procedure for Meniere's Disease, which has symptoms similar to my own, but I couldn't find anything connected to stroke conditions. Dr. Hain warned against using the three injection method in individuals over age 70 whom should be treated with an injection of a lesser dose not to be repeated, unless needed after a period of several weeks or months. I mentioned this to the otologist before the procedure, stating that I wanted the lesser procedure that Dr. Hain recommends. He replied that he is familiar with Dr. Hain and holds him in high regard. I interpreted that he was in agreement and will not administer the three full dosage method and scheduled the procedure for the following week. Immediately after the injection, I was unable to stand alone and leaned on my son who accompanied me. There was no improvement in the weeks that followed. I was no longer able to drive and had to revert to the use of a walker. I phoned the doctor and he told me to wait a month for improvement. After a month, I contacted him again. He stated I should have allowed the three weekly injections and that I am a difficult case and suggested I get a second opinion. I met with another neuro-otologist who said it is too bad that I did not meet with him prior to the procedure as he would have warned me against it since a brain related injury cannot be corrected by treating a peripheral area. He advised me not to consider further injections to maintain what little balance remains on my right side. He then suggested that I enter a rehab facility for three months of PT to improve my balance. At the close of our meeting, he evidently thought he did not want to chance being critical of an associate in his field or the possibility of a court action in which he may be called as a witness, so he concluded the visit by saying, “Maybe, if you came to see me first, I might have considered the procedure.” (??) I was very damaged and angry by the above mentioned experiences. I contacted seven legal firm seeking legal action, none of whom would consider the case. Two attorneys from separate firms had the courtesy to call and explain why they refused representation, both giving the same reasons,”Since it involves a preexisting condition, a jury hearing will be involved and the best outcome might be a settlement that may not even cover expenses as it is likely that two physicians will cover for each other.” I contacted the surgeon's insurance company and after two years of negotiation, settlement was reached for an amount far less than I felt I deserved, but probably more than may have been realized through court action. After seeing a dozen neurologists, I finally accepted the word of a doctor with an excellent national reputation. He agreed with others that recovery is not in store for me, as I fall in a small group for whom there is no improvement. He also stated that vestibular training will be of no help for improvement. During a visit with a neuro-opthamologist, I questioned him as to why so many neurologists have recommended vestibular training. He replied that many doctors who feel that they can't be of help to a patient, like to believe that the patient leaves with some ” hope.” (??) It is just this “hope” that sent me on a a quixotic journey of dashed expectations. I am reminded of a recent experience of having our laundry dryer properly vented. I asked the mechanic if he would also clean out the lint to avoid the possibility of fire since it hadn't been cleaned for years, He agreed to do it without charge and removed the front panel and gave it a swift cleaning of the little lint that had collected there. I later searched the Web, and discovered that most of the lint collects in the rear of the dryer and is the major hazard. I e-mailed the mechanic, thanking him for offering the cleaning for no charge,but warned that the dryer owner is left with the notion that the threat of fire is diminished when in reality the threat remains.
  9. ajcee

    Angry Doctors

    Hi Pam, Ditch the guy and his cantankerous crew ASAP. You know I had my share of exposure to doctors with questionable skills, but none so blatantly dumb and insulting. I'll bet that he wouldn't dare to behave in the same way with male patients as he does with females. He sounds a bit on the psycho side. If you search the web for a replacement, try www.healthgrades.com. It will give you a list of doctors in your area as well as their educational and training background and patients' ratings of their abilities and experiences of their visits. Even with that information, it is not totally reliable, but helpful. Good luck and a pleasant holiday season and a New Year of increasing recovery. AJ
  10. The following is lengthy and contains some information that appeared in prior posts. I don't expect many to read this post in full or be in agreement with it. However, I felt compelled to labor through this writing, if not only for cathartic reasons, then with the hope that some of the mistakes I made may benefit someone despite my naivete. Most important is to seek a second opinion, especially where surgery may be involved. Bear in mind that “Too many cooks spoil the broth.” Many a chef is the God in his own kitchen and deludes himself with recipes that he believes are manna from heaven. If I had the money and ability to travel to John Hopkins Hospital or The Cleveland Clinic, how much I would have saved in money, time, pain and disappointment. I started my post-stroke recovery not with self pity, but with a concentration on self improvement, which served me well the first year, but degenerated with each shrug pointed my way. While hospitalized and being diagnosed with a brain stem stroke, I was visited by a neurologist who headed a small group of neurologists associated with the hospital. He was a burly man in his late fifties with an optimistic disposition. He explained that while my right vertibral artery was occluded, nature compensated with the Circle of Willis which allows three remaining arteries to feed blood to the brain, therefore I should have nothing to worry about, After five days of being unable to get out of bed and requiring a bolster of pillows to sit without falling over on my side, he appeared and stated that I had been scheduled for physical therapy, but since it was a three day holiday, he saw no need to remain in hospital since I can exercise at home. .I wondered how I will manage, but thought I must not be very ill and to expect quick recovery since I am being discharged so soon. Fortunately, my son phoned the doctor and told him I am in no condition to be released and would be a burden to my wife who is ill. The doctor appeared at my bedside and apologized stating that my son was right and I will be transferred to rehab elsewhere. I was in rehab three months and pleased with the care I was given. I had two daily 1 hour sessions of PT which I furthered with evening racing through the corridor on my wheelchair, propelling myself with my hands, then my feet as others looked on, perhaps thinking this 75 year old geezer has lost it, but I was determined to progress from wheelchair to walker and release. I had confidence and liking for the director neurologist and saw him privately upon my release. After three sessions, he told me there is nothing he can do to help me. I attended a local PT facility twice a week,staggering through a narrow isle between two rows of weight and cardio equipment with the same zeal I displayed in rehab, quickly increasing the amount of weights I could handle, until the facility owner approached me, stating that I may look younger than my years, but I have to respect my body and proceed at a slower pace. He also seemed concerned with the degree of my balance problems and the possibility that I may fall while moving on from one machine to another and hurting myself severely. I think he was relieved when after two months I left and freed him from a potential insurance claim. I made an appointment with a staff neurologist with my state university hospital who informed me that the MRI report shows the brain stem occlusion resulted from a congenital defect. He had on two occasions prescribed medications that had dizziness side effects after I warned him that because of extreme vertigo, I cannot tolerate such medications. I realized he could not offer anything further, and sought the opinion of a senior staff neurologist who stated he did not believe the stroke to be congenital in nature and on the second visit stated that he was unable to help me. Disappointed in the opinions of the two staff neurologists at the university hospital, I started vestibular training at a large neurological center, but after a few sessions I was tested for nystagmus which proved positive and was told to temporarily discontinue therapy and see a neuro-opthamologist. Before doing so, I met with the director neurologist who candidly stated that nothing can be done to improve my condition and it will worsen with time. I did undergo optical training for double vision without beneficial results and was referred to a supposed leading neurologist and partner in the neurological center. I underwent testing in every department of the facility and in the summation was told by the neurologist that the only way I can improve my condition is to undergo a procedure of gentamycin injections in my right ear that will “kill” the vertibral nerve which is distorting signals from my brain, causing vertigo balance problems. He stated the only possible risk might be partial or total hearing loss in the ear and losing right side balance which will be compensated by the brain and balance training. I thought at last, there is hope and agreed to see a neuro-otologist who will perform the procedure. The result from this procedure was an immediate further loss of balance and increase of vertigo after the first injection. I had just relearned to drive and get by with just a single point cane and had to revert to using a walker and surrendering my driver's license. I belatedly sought a second opinion from a neuro- otologist who angrily stated the procedure should never have been done, as a central (brain) injury cannot be corrected by treating a peripheral area. He added that I should not proceed with further injections in order to salvage the little balance that remains on my right side. Disgusted, but stubbornly persisting in my search for help, I googled neurologists within my county, and made an appointment with a neurologist in a nearby hospital who was a director in the epilepsy department but advertised stroke in his list of specialties. I was impressed with his education and training in leading universities and hospitals and his output of medical papers. I explained the reason for an appointment which was only available after 4 PM when he was through with his epilepsy patients. After taking my medical history,which he entered into his laptop, he stated that he was unable to help me as his specialty is epilepsy and he is not very seasoned in stroke conditions, but he can refer me to a colleague, very experienced with stroke patients. I was later billed for an after hour appointment plus $60. for a ten minute phone call to the recommended neurologist. I refused to pay these charges and told his billing department to shove it! Upon my first visit to the referred neurologist,I was told to get an updated MRI and MRA which I did. When the doctor received the reports he called my home and spoke to my wife in my absence. He told her that I was to see a neuro-brain surgeon immediately, as the report shows a blocked artery. She asked if I could call him back, as I will return shortly. He said he cannot be reached as the office will be closed for 3 days. When my wife gave me the message I got very angry as he had no right to drop such a hot potato in her lap, nor did I authorize his office to speak to other persons regarding medical information. At this point, I lacked any confidence in neurologists. The following morning I called the radiologist who submitted the report. I wasn't too anxious as my guess was that the neurologist failed to review my records which contained reports and discs of a brain stem blockage. The radiologist was very cooperative and assured me there was no other blockage other than the brain stem occlusion.. When I next met with the doctor, I made no mention of the incident as it would only lead to my searching for a replacement, which I was tired of doing. I did mention that the blockage referred to was in my history. This did not deter him from insisting that I see a neuro-surgeon which I humored him by doing. Upon reviewing the MRA disc, the surgeon stated there was good blood flow and couldn't understand why I was referred to him. I felt foolish for going along with the neurologist's request as well as feeling embarrassed for him, which I am sure didn't phase him at all. However in what I had determined will be my last visit with him, the neurologist stated that he is perplexed with my case and can only suggest that I see a neurologist highly esteemed internationally who restricts his practice only to patients recommended by other neurologists . I carefully did a google search on the recommended doctor who was highly credentialed and published and staffed at Columbia Presbyterian University hospital. When I phoned to make an appointment, the secretary stated that the doctor only sees patients referred by certain neurologists. When I gave the name of my referring neurologist, she said okay and we arranged an appointment which my son will take a day off from his job and drive me 60 miles into NYC. I was immediately impressed with the doctor aged in his seventies. He was gentle and thorough in his examination, a reminder of a time when doctors did not rush to beat out the clock and make a fast buck, just focused on the patient's need. I came to this appointment with a determination that I will accept the doctor's diagnosis, whatever it may be, and give up further searching. After almost an hour, the doctor stated I am sorry to have to tell you that unfortunately, you are in a small group of patients that can't be helped. I asked him if vestibular training might be of help and he stated not. I then said that there is no sense in further seeing a neurologist. He replied that on the contrary, I should routinely keep in touch with a neurologist and the referring doctor is a good neurologist (??). Several months passed and my stroke symptoms were intensifying. I was afraid I might have had another stroke. I chose a neurologist from the Web who had several reviews from patients who found him very helpful. On our first meeting, good rapport was established. He seemed very interested in my case, stating that his father has a similar stroke condition. He seemed determined to fully investigate some untried approaches that may unearth the cause of some of my problems. On my third visit, I explained that I am experiencing a radical change in my symptoms, including some new symptoms. Increased vertigo and ataxia,vision loss, hearing loss and most of all memory loss and problems with vocal articulation. He recommended an MRI of the brain and spine following MRIs that were taken just three months prior. He questioned the appearance of an arachnoid cyst which although not changed from the prior MRI, seemed to be pressing on the cerebellum. This could very well explain the radical change in symptoms, so he referred me to a neuro-surgeon. The surgeon felt the cyst was not instrumental as the cause of increased symptoms , but may very well be caused by extreme atrophy of the cerebellum, in which age may be a factor. During a follow-up meeting with my neurologist, he reviewed my MRI reports and discs with a phone call to the submitting radiologist, questioning him as to why there was no comment regarding the atrophy of the cerebellum. The radiologist reviewed records of several MRIs throughout the years and stated that the radiologists, including himself, based their reports on the prior radiologists' reports instead of as a new finding. My neurologist also questioned why the Columbia University doctor diagnosed my stroke as cerebellar, since the damage incurred by my stroke did not appear on the cerebellum. In a follow-up visit, my neurologist stated he will no longer refer his patients to the facility that erred in my MRI reports and stated that as much as he wanted to be helpful, he can't come up with any ideas. He suggested that I start anew by seeing someone else and meeting with the Columbia University neurologist and question him on his “cerebellum” diagnosis. I responded by saying that I have seen a dozen neurologists and have no desire to search "anew" and most certainly not meet again with the University neurologist and question his diagnosis, which I am sure he won't appreciate coming from a layman. He said he understands and is sorry he couldn't help further, but will welcome my visit if I desire support.
  11. Hi Dean, I can commiserate with you as my memory problems have increased considerably since my brain stem stroke 13 years ago. Some I attribute to age (I'm 87 years old), but mostly due to a degenerating continuance from my stroke. I was recently told that there is extreme atrophy of my cerebellum by a neuro-surgeon, but.I was also told that there doesn't seem to be a tendency to Alzheimer disease. I find it very difficult to remember names, but what really bugs me is a repetition of forgetfulness such as forgetting to close the garage door when entering my house, lighting the wrong burner to make coffee, and taking a few steps to search for something on the computer, but not being able to recall what I wanted to search for .Driving and socializing are out of the question because of extreme vertigo and balance issues along with the memory problems. My time perception is weird as weeks pass with the speed of days despite being housebound and a boring existence. What occurred a week ago appears as though it was two days before. I have seen several neuro physicians, none of whom have been able to help, but mostly in agreement that I belong in a small group unable to experience recovery. AJ
  12. Happy Anniversary ajcee!

  13. Yesterday, Tony Fraiser introduced the board to “Ted talks” I was intrigued with the two videos he posted and searched the “Ted” site and discovered a fascinating account by a brain surgeon who had suffered a massive stroke. She revealed some paranormal experiences similar to my own experiences that occurred while in hospital several years ago suffering from status asthmaticus. Not being computer savvy, I was unable to directly post the video, but it is easily accessible by going to ted.com and click “The twenty most popular talks of all time” then scroll down to “My stroke of insight.” After viewing the video, go to Google for my post, " Before my last breath" (page 2, phenomena etc.) Certainly, I can't speak with the intelligence and knowledge of a brain surgeon, but it is interesting that she speaks of entering a state of Nirvana consciousness, beautiful and peaceful, free of the constant internal chattering that constantly invades most of us. Although she doesn't speak of breathing difficulty,it can be assumed that her hemorrhaging brain is depriving her of the necessary oxygen and nutrition provided by a healthy blood flow. Advanced yogis in meditation, experience slow breathing and heart rate, as I did during my asthmatic crisis and prior to those whom report their near death experiences. .As to my precognitive experience, it is believed to not be uncommon with these experiences along with hallucinations. Carl Jung, the noted psychiatrist, has written extensively on synchronicity, I cant help but feel that Tony's posting along with the brain surgeon's video and my post of a few months ago are a manifestation of synchronicity.
  14. ajcee

    Enuff,Already!

    In early 2002, at age 75, I suffered a brain stem stroke and was put on a regimen of coumadin. During 2003, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was treated with a series of external radiation. 2004 welcomed me with chest pain caused by blocked heart arteries, One of which was completely blocked and calcified which required a rotoblation procedure (like roto-rooter) in order to reach the heart.During this procedure, the guide wire tip was accidently cut, and remains in my heart. Four stents were placed in my heart and in place of the coumadin, I was placed on Plavix and baby aspirin. In the past two weeks there has been a convergence of these illnesses, furthering complications and calling for risky decisions. After almost 13 years of blood thinner therapy, I was taken to hos[ital with a GI bleed and taken off blood thinners. I was told to discontinue Plavix and continue to take baby aspirin upon my release. Four days later, I reentered the hospital with a mild heart attack and underwent a series of tests which included an angiogram. Yesterday, I was told by my cardiologist that while there was no blockage in the stents, the heart attack was caused by the stoppage of Plavix which had to be done to prevent further bleeding.The wire that remains in my heart, although covered with tissue and is no puncturing threat,but does cause a problem as it serves as a barrier for the accumulation of blood clots. There is no choice but to introduce the Plavix again along with the baby aspirin, the Plavix on an every other day basis. Thus , there remains the increased risk of another stroke or heart attack and the prostate cancer which has been in remission for 10 years has recurred, making it likely for a return to hormone therapy or chemotherapy. It is like a medical smorgasbord that lies before me without choice. and that is not to add the recent diagnosis of extreme cerebellum atrophy. What the hell, I am ten years above the average American life span, so when the end arrives, my certificate will read,"Died of natural causes!"
  15. Betsy, Four days after being released from the hospital for GI bleeding, I was rushed to the hospital with a heart attack, the first I have experienced. I went through several tests, including an angiogram which did not show any blockage in the four stents in my heart. I was fortunate as the attack was considered to be mild, possibly caused by a blockage to a small vein. Following my stroke 13 years ago, I was put on coumadin and two years later after experiencing angina and the placement of heart stents, the coumadin was replaced with Plavix and baby aspirin. Having been on a blood thinner regime for so many years, the GI bleeding incident was not too much of a surprise and it appears more than coincidence that when the Plavix was stopped, I suffered a heart attack. It has been determined that going forward, I remain solely on baby aspirin as the less risky choice. I consider myself lucky that after 10 years the stents remain free of blockage and the heart attack not too serious. Messing with blood thinners is a craps game, but with an occlusive stroke there is little choice.