Today is the 5 year anniversary of my brain stem stroke. Looking back I am as amazed as my husband, doctors, trainer and friends of my progress. I have had a lot of ups and downs and have bounced back with God’s help for strength and courage. Last August when I fell, broke 3 ribs, punctured my lung resulting in various procedures and COPD, I didn’t think I was going to rally. I was discouraged and disappointed. I worked hard but the progress was so slow that I didn’t see it. I have been so upbeat and positive but this time it has been hard returning to that spot.

About a week ago, I had an appointment with a new pulmonologist. To make a long story short I was late and the doctor wouldn’t take me. They rescheduled me for June 28 – another month of waiting and I already waited 6 weeks for that appt. I lost it and broke down and cried right in the dr. office. I now think this was a bottom I had to reach because it was a few days afterwards that I had an ah-ha moment and all of a sudden saw the progress I had made since last August. Yes, it was true; I was bouncing back once again. It was like my angels reached out to me and showed me the light – I was truly living in a stroke survivor mode again and had joy in my heart again. What a journey this is. It reminds me of the saying “you can’t get here from there”. I am now noticing “little” things which really aren’t so little. I can turn over in bed after trying for 5 years different ways to maneuver to a different position!! Wow, now I don’t have to always sleep on my back. I hope I can give others the hope that you have all given me. StrokeNet rocks!! :You-Rock: This now gives me an inspiration to try harder and try to do more “normal” things in my new world. I truly believe God and his angels have held me up through all of this but I have done the footwork. :happydance:

Hugs to you all, Leah :giggle: