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Have you had any experience of a stroke or similar conditions?

From the lens I Had a Mini-Stroke and What Happened After.

  • SoundFinance May 26, 2012 @ 11:48 pm | delete
    One of my clients (and friend) had a stroke about 30 years ago in his early 30s. He's been wheelchair bound since
  • SheilaSchnauzies May 26, 2012 @ 1:34 am | delete
    I want to applaud you, first of all, on your courage in sharing your story! You will undoubtedly help countless others with your story.

    I had a TIA myself a few years back at an outdoor dinner party. I knew no one there except my husband, and he was chatting elsewhere. I felt "funny," and all of a sudden I simply could not move any part of my body. Lucky I was sitting at a table! I was able to hold myself up, but that was about it. I could not speak to call for help. It felt like I was trapped in my useless body and could not get out. After what had to be close to an hour, my ability to function returned. I managed to ask my daughter to drive me home. I remember lying down on the couch and nothing else til the next day. My neuro told me I'd had a TIA, although it left no evidence. It did leave some damage though; it damaged my short term recall and I developed some mild aphasia from it. I still struggle with both of those things.

    Shortly after, I was diagnosed with a clotting disorder, Antiphospholipid Syndrome, after having a DVT in my leg. Well, that sure did explain the reason for the TIA too. In 2009, I had a complete stroke in my superior branch retinal artery, which cost me the lower 1/2 of my vision in my right eye, permanently.

    I love what you said about how you live knowing you could die at any moment. I feel so much the same way - surprisingly calm about it. I ran a DVT survivor group for years and I would always say, "the fact that you know you have something that could kill you does not mean that is what WILL kill you!" We could get hit by that proverbial bus!

    It takes someone who has experienced this to "get" how someone else feels. I get it, I applaud you again, and I wish you a long, drama-free life!
  • Stazjia May 31, 2012 @ 6:43 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story. How dreadful for you to have a TIA in those circumstances. At least I was with my best friend at the time.

    I'm so happy that you understand and share my philosophy about having a life threatening condition. In fact, I think every creature on earth has one, it's called life. None of us survive it! You and I, as well as many other people, know what might cause our death, but, as you say, that doesn't mean it definitely will. We could die of something completely different.
  • hiygin May 25, 2012 @ 12:00 pm | delete
    My friend had a mild stroke and he was only 33 years old; excellent lens. Thank you.
  • J-Ellen May 17, 2012 @ 10:09 pm | delete
    Hi. My husband had a massive stroke 8 years ago. I'm a caregiver wife. I've completed 2 lenses on his stroke and our situation if you care to browse my profile. My husband also has aphasia. Your lens kept me reading and you've done a nice job with it. I'm pleased you have made such recovery.
  • Concerned Daughter-in-law May 10, 2012 @ 12:16 pm | delete
    My mother-in-law "Virginia" just had a "TIA" we think?! We are unable to get any other information because my sister-in-law has all the medical data. As we are estranged from my sister-in-lw we cannot get any heads up or feed back on "Virginia's" progress! We only have to go on what we are told by "Virginia", mind you she is in her 90s and doesn't recall very well lately. When we got the word she had had the stroke it was brief, "Mom has had a stroke and their taking her to the hospital" were all we were told. I called my husband and let him know, and he called the hospital then facility where she lives and couldn't get anything from them except that she was back at home. We then went to see her, while she looked very tired and confused, there wasn't any "drooping mouth" or "slurred" words. She didn't remember who we were at first, but after a while she was able to recall her son and smile. Her eyesight was bad before she had her stroke so don't expect much there. I know it will be a long process but will she ever remember her grandchildren and others she has forgotten? And what can we do as far as helping her to accomplish this with time? What exersizes can we have her do ? She never smoked,drank, or was obese either. Most all of the symptoms I read about she has never had. Need more information on just what to do to improve her quality of life at this point in time. Thanks
  • margaret-elliott-568 May 2, 2012 @ 4:30 am | delete
    my husband had a TIA in January this year, wondering how long he is going to feel so tired , most days he has to go to bed for a few hours, thank you
  • sherioz Apr 27, 2012 @ 12:41 am | delete
    This lens has moved me so much. Thank-you so much for sharing. You have given me the courage to share my own story. It is important, I think, for people to share their humanity with one another on a deeply personal level as you have done here.
  • raitoavi Apr 22, 2012 @ 8:58 am | delete
    This is the first lens I've read that really got to me, I hope to be seeing more and more of your lenses for many years to come.
  • JoanneOtt Apr 15, 2012 @ 3:58 am | delete
    You have done a great job here educating people on this important subject.
  • peggygallyot Apr 9, 2012 @ 11:43 am | delete
    I have seen first hand someone having a stroke
  • jim Apr 9, 2012 @ 1:27 am | delete
    i know realize what my mother must of had, i see those signs being the same. thank you
  • CruiseReady Apr 1, 2012 @ 10:49 am | delete
    Thank you so much for telling your story. It must have been hard to do, but your hope that it will help someone else will surely be realized, and may already have been.
  • B. Godina Mar 22, 2012 @ 7:52 pm | delete
    I had a seizure and had to have my left carotid artery operated on last week -- it was 80% blocked. The seizure was God's way of making me aware of the blockage problem and taking care of it. Barbara
  • ---Chazz Mar 17, 2012 @ 10:53 am | delete
    What a powerful and brave story! I am sorry to learn you are having to deal with this at such an early age. I am sure your story and the extensive information you provide here will help many and possibly even save lives. You are an even more remarkable and strong person than I thought before reading this lens. Blessed and featured on "Wing-ing it on Squidoo," my tribute to the best lenses I've found since donning my wings,
  • mhkworld Mar 12, 2012 @ 9:55 am | delete
    Hi, I am dreadfully sorry to hear about your T.I.A. Well at least you seem to be much better now. My Mother had a mini-stroke late last year aroud November. It was the MOST TERRIFING THING I EVER experienced. I cried for a month straight. After I got over the shock, I decided to find all I can about Stokes. Now I am an expert on stroke recovery and prevention. Naturally, less expensive methods are the best. Trust me I know. After my got better my uncle got a severe Stroke and I was the one who nursed him back to find health. We must all realise the importance of knowing everything we can about strokes. It could happen to anyone. I SALUTE YOU and wish you all the best.
  • Ladyeaglefeather Mar 1, 2012 @ 3:32 am | delete
    great lens, thanks for all of the information.
  • GISELE Feb 28, 2012 @ 1:50 pm | delete
    Hi Thank you for sharing! I believe I suffered a TIA back in Nov.201.But as I stayed in the hospital for 4 days I was told that I was fine..But I did have a MRI and a EEG done the 1st week of Feb.go back to the neurologist in March for results..I still don't feel the same as I should being only a 44 year old woman.I started getting bad headaches and dizziness after the TIA event..I call in an Event because I still don't remember anything after passing out in shower.and stumbling downstairs to my husband!! Such a scary situation..
  • alwaysjules Feb 22, 2012 @ 10:58 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing this important story.
  • Trevor Sams Feb 13, 2012 @ 10:16 am | delete
    The story about the TIA where one side of the carotid was almost fully blocked and the other about 55% both diagnosed as inoperable I find rather strange.
    I had a TIA where one side was about 75% occluded and the other 53%.
    They operated on the 75% occlusion and removed the blockage and said they would do a similar operation on the other side if it showed signs of another TIA.
    Cannot understand why this was not done on the lady making the report?
    Surely 55% is operable?
  • Stazjia Feb 13, 2012 @ 10:53 am | delete
    The blockages are so close to my brain that operating carries a big risk of a major stroke.
  • nightbear Feb 10, 2012 @ 2:48 am | delete
    Wonderful page, very factual, and presented so well, I am so happy that you are well now. But it is very scary. Blessed, This is a great representative of Feb. 14th heart page.
  • Casperooni Jan 25, 2012 @ 12:30 pm | delete
    Thank you so much for telling your story. I had a mini stroke just after Christmas and am still waiting to have my neck x ray and heart scan and cannot believe it is taking so long. Family and friends are very concerned, but the medical practioners think that this is the norm. It helped to hear your tale as it shows that I am right to be concerned.
    I wish you well and hope that you are enjoying your life. I will need to come to terms with whatever the diagnosis, but it certainly turns your life around.
  • eeonefivebee Dec 30, 2011 @ 8:45 am | delete
    Crikey, I think you are very brave for sharing your story with us, anything that can help to raise awareness of these ministrokes has got to be good. My father in law suffered a number of mini-strokes, including one that robbed him of his swallowing reflex. He never quite had the same care as you (Derby hospitals don't have a great reputation as being very good) but it was his heart that gave out in the end. I am with you about a belief in God, it would be very comforting I think, I know it helped my mother in her dark times.
  • Penny Dec 15, 2011 @ 2:53 am | delete
    I experienced a stroke in 2000, a 1 cm infarct on the rt side, which made the lt side numbed and/or weak, and my speech wasslurred. I was a pretty good singer prior to this (other people had said so!) but haven't been abl e to carry a tune since.. It happened when I was working on the computer on a Sunday morning. With the exception of the singing, my symptoms resolved in 7 days. While in hospital, I was diagnosed with diabetes.
  • lisa Dec 11, 2011 @ 2:58 am | delete
    I hade a mini stroke a month ago, and the doctors still cant find out why. It showed that i hade a sroke on the ct and mri, they just dont know what caused it. They, have done all kinds of tests and all came back ok. I guess, sometimes doctors can not explain what happens, if they see nothing that caused it. Just, Thank God, it did not last long.
  • Cathy Jan 30, 2012 @ 11:58 am | delete
    I had a mini stroke Dec. 7 and they don't know why. I'm having bad headace and the Dr. said I'm healing and the headaces will go away. Do you have headace?
  • 2StrokesNonly23 Feb 3, 2012 @ 2:48 am | delete
    Did they do a transephageal ekg? If not you may have a small hole between atriums that allows non-filtered blood to pass through. Symptoms are unexplained strokes, and headaches.
  • stephanieelizabeth Dec 5, 2011 @ 1:09 am | delete
    Thanks for writing this, my dad went into hospital with a mini stroke today, and I'm not really sure what to expect. Reading your article now!
  • Janiece Nov 19, 2011 @ 4:39 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story with us. Blessed by a Squid Angel!
  • match137 Nov 7, 2011 @ 5:39 pm | delete
    wow, we take so many things for granted... thanx for the lens
  • Jennifer Oct 6, 2011 @ 5:57 pm | delete
    Hey, wow I'm sorry to hear of your health problems. I recently at the age of 23!! suffered something like a stroke. The left side of my body was paralyzed and I was very dizzy and could not stand I had to call 911 and be rushed to hospital. They did a CT scan and deemed it normal. My symptoms subsided but I was given no explanation for my mini stroke. I've had anxiety about it every since and also had two serious panic attacks because of it. I seen a neurologist 2 months later and begged for an MRI because I have heard that CT scans do not show everything. Unfortunately in canada we have to wait very long for these tests so I have a 6 month wait ahead of me as well another 6 month wait to see another neurologist. It's very stressful and I know how scarey it is now to experience a stroke. I'm dizzy every day all the time with still no answers from the docs. I'm just waiting and worrying. It really sucks, just wanted you to know I feel your pain in some ways because I did experience it and you just assume they will find out what's wrong and offer some solution. Just keep as active as you comfortably can, eat healthy, and just honestly take it easy and put yourself first in every situation, also try to keep stress away from your life. Enjoy every moment. It is a grim diagnosis but it doesn't mean you can't live another 20 + years happily. Stay positive love and know you're not alone <3 also, I know you don't believe in god or are religious and that's fine. I personally believe there is something. We couldn't have just appeared out of no where on an earth that is perfectly tuned to us and works in such a perfect cycle with every living thing plant & animals be optimistic that there is something unexplainable after this life.... too crazy for us to ever understand. ;) ;) But in the mean time just enjoy everyday you have and live it to the fullest to whatever standards! I wish you all the luck and hope nothing but the best! <3
  • jackie Dec 29, 2011 @ 10:04 am | delete
    Jennifer, so sorry to hear that you have to wait so long to find out, it must be a real worry! Try and not worry about it too much (I know it is hard, I suffered 3 embolic strokes this year and one about a year before that and I am 42) and I worry constantly that i will no longer be around for my you son, however I have been told that stress can make it worse, so I am going to try and get rid of my insecurities and start doing yoga (I believe this can help reduce stress) I wish you all the best Jennifer and hopefully everything with your tests will turn out fine, take care x
  • Diane J Sep 16, 2011 @ 4:20 pm | delete
    I had a minor stroke just over a year ago, although I thank god that I have recovered well, I still get really down now and again, but I dont like letting on to people as I feel they would think that i'm just saying it to get sympathy. I was told that after a sroke it can take up to 2 years or more for you to start feeling your self again.
  • Maria G Sep 8, 2011 @ 11:37 am | delete
    my mother had a mini stroke about 3 weeks ago and she has not been the same since. After the stroke she stopped eating and drinking water because she said that the food was poison and the water had alcohol in it and so much more, this person I see now is not my mother and I need help in trying to get her help so can some one please help me.
  • Stazjia Sep 8, 2011 @ 2:29 pm | delete
    Maria, how terrible for you. It must be very distressing seeing your mother like this.

    Can you speak to your mother's doctor about her condition? I think that would be the best thing to do.
  • Kerri Fox Sep 5, 2011 @ 7:49 am | delete
    I think I may have, after reading your blog it has opened my eyes a bit. I have recently published my blog about my recent health issues, also asking the public for there opinions and feedback. After stumbling across your blog I think it may have just answered my question. Thank you for your post it provides excellent information for readers.

    I wish you a future of happiness and enjoyment. You've made it clear in your post that you just don't know what's round the corner. Take care.

    Please visit my blog http://myrecenthealth.blogspot.com all comments welcome.
  • Graceonline Aug 29, 2011 @ 11:59 am | delete
    Luckily no. Thank you for writing about this important topic. Knowing the symptoms and signs of stroke can be life saving, and you have provided a good service in sharing your story. No matter what any of us believe, miracles can occur. I wish them for you.
  • Patricia Aug 24, 2011 @ 10:34 pm | delete
    I had a mini stroke 8 weeks ago. My sister had a major one this past Nov. She was in
    a very stressful job, had just gotten married 9 mos before. That god she got to the
    hospital fast had the blood clot removed. After lots of therapy, p.t. and now accupuncture
    she is doing remarkably well and volunteering at the hospital that saved her life. I who had
    the mini stroke took care of her for 2 months in nov. and jan-feb. past. I knew the warning
    signs was at home by myself and called 911. I did have my arteries in my neck checked
    there were fine-good ct scan-good blood work-was told it was a mini stroke. I have had
    a pulling on the left side of my face for at least 30 yrs. Also have fibro-cfs-alot of
    stenosis in neck-spine etc. It seems weird but I know longer have that weird feeling
    on the left side of my face usually starting around my eye area and causing numbness
    around to the middle of the chin. Could anyone know if this feeling I had or stenosis
    have caused a mini stroke?
  • YayasHome Aug 23, 2011 @ 1:09 pm | delete
    Hmmmm; sorry. I was thinking there was another place to add more. I came to this lens because of the title. I want to be knowledgeable in the event I or my hubby has a stroke. You have helped so much by the information you included in this lens. Thank you. Be sure to take care of yourself. I'll keep you in my prayers. :)
  • YayasHome Aug 23, 2011 @ 1:06 pm | delete
    No; I have many, many medical challenges, but I've been spared having a stroke.
  • Aug 11, 2011 @ 10:40 am | delete
    I don't have any experience of a stroke, but my father has had. Thank God he was able to fully recover. I think Vita Plus Juice helps him with his recovery. But of course, PRAYER is still the most powerful cure. :)

    I admire your courage, Stazjia. Thanks for sharing this with us. I've learned a lot from you.

    God Bless...:)

    Heart and Kisses
  • ElkieRog Aug 4, 2011 @ 12:13 am | delete
    My 4 TIA's and the subsequent mini stroke:

    If what you had is now called a mini stroke, I guess the first 4 I had would properly be called micro or perhaps pico strokes. And then the last one would be called a mini or very mild stroke. The first 4 were spread unevenly spread over 20-25 years, the first 3 rather early in that time period. I think that I need to document my total experience thus far, in order to offer a balance to the rather dire outcome contained herein.

    Thank you for sharing and you may be giving me some insight to what is yet ahead. I will work on a lens to share my experiences and be back in a few days. Or weeks; it will be a major project. Perhaps I will publish it as a work in progress along the way.

    Roger Lewis
  • MaxReily Jul 23, 2011 @ 11:40 pm | delete
    No personal experience, but have had lots of experience with others who'd had strokes, during my nursing career. I admire your courage in facing your condition and sharing your experience with others. Very important lens, and perhaps will help many others to recognize their symptoms if the same thing happens to them.
  • thrivingmom Jul 3, 2011 @ 10:07 pm | delete
    What an amazingly brave lens. Blessed by a squid angel.
  • JANE SUTHERLAND Jul 3, 2011 @ 11:24 am | delete
    your story has enlightened me into the everyday effects of a ministroke, i too had 1 and i think i have had quite a few since but not gone for medical help and dismissed symptoms as just stress, when i know they are mini-strokes
  • debnet Jun 25, 2011 @ 3:25 am | delete
    Blessed by a Squid Angel ;)
  • pramodbisht Jun 23, 2011 @ 2:18 am | delete
    I deeply appreciate your courage in sharing this,
  • promotional-coupons-codes Jun 7, 2011 @ 1:58 am | delete
    You are so brave to share your story with us. I appreciate it. I can't say much but live the life to fullest.
  • MedicalBootcamp May 16, 2011 @ 5:50 pm | delete
    Wow...I'm really impressed you were able to write this. I'm not sure I'd be so open about my own health. Thank you for sharing this. I'm wondering if you're on cholesterol-lowering drugs. Keeping that left carotid open is the only thing keeping you alive, so I would think they'd prescribe something for that. I wish you well and hope for the best.
  • Momsbusy247 May 11, 2011 @ 7:09 am | delete
    Thanks so so much for sharing such a valuable information. Stroke is common nowadays given the lifestyle most of us has. I learned so much and I think those who read it as well will find this very helpful. Bless you for doing this lens! Wonderful Work
  • May 10, 2011 @ 12:03 am | delete
    oh..Lens about stroke..Now am feeling that I should have to care about my body..
  • bikerministry Apr 25, 2011 @ 9:09 pm | delete
    I have had relatives who have had TIA's. Thank you for being so transparent. I know so much more about stroke. (We are the same age.) Take care of yourself - you're doing a great job in Squidoo!!
  • RenaissanceWoman2010 Apr 1, 2011 @ 8:27 am | delete
    I deeply appreciate your courage in sharing this account of what it is to deal with a life-threatening condition. Everything changes in a split second when you get this kind of news. My father had a series of mini strokes, so I can feel compassion for what you are living with and facing. Wishing you all the very best.
  • Jacqui Mar 27, 2011 @ 11:18 pm | delete
    Hi I am a 40 year old female and was told a couple of days ago I have had a mini stroke but not sure when it happened I still cant believe it, I am still having tests this afternoon I go for an mri never had one. I have been told not to work or drive until I have been to the stroke clinic.
  • debnet Mar 17, 2011 @ 6:28 am | delete
    I feel for you I really do and reading about your journey through life has made me realise even more how lucky I am. Thank you for sharing such a personal story with us. So much of which I know exactly how you felt. I'll lensroll this to Brain Tumor as soon as it goes live ;) I hope you remain strong.
  • Cardtouche Mar 12, 2011 @ 7:32 am | delete
    To write this lens must have been so hard to do but it also shows what strength of character you have - You're a wonderful lady and I just want to send you a big hug :-)
  • Margo_Arrowsmith Feb 24, 2011 @ 7:16 am | delete
    Angel Blessed
  • flowergardener Feb 14, 2011 @ 1:00 pm | delete
    Oh Stazjia! Such a brave, caring, kind soul you are! I myself haven't had a mini or stroke yet, but my chances to get one are huge, so it's only a matter of time. Your comment "Perhaps the important things are to find something you want to do and to achieve a level of calm without lying to yourself about your condition." is very precious, and the way I also live my life. From one lady to another, I cheer you on, admire you, and give you thoughts of love this valentine's day......and always.
  • Stazjia Feb 15, 2011 @ 6:05 am | delete
    Thank you so much for your kind words which have brought tears to my eyes. I really hope that you don't have a TIA or stroke. You are facing the possibility, though, with courage and fortitude and making the most of your life which is all any of us can do. The healthiest of people can meet with an accident or other disaster and meet an early, unexpected end. This is why I agree with you that we must use the precious time we have rather than waste it worrying about what might happen. I send my love and best wishes to you.
  • Michey Feb 13, 2011 @ 9:40 pm | delete
    You are a very strong personality, I know it is not easy... my Mom had a mini-stroke 15 year ago, she is 96 now, she is taking her medications but she is OK. So it is hard to make general rules, each body is different, just taking one day at a time and not be worry is the right approach.
    All the best for you.
    Michey
  • sapphyre Feb 10, 2011 @ 5:58 pm | delete
    I think i had a min stroke I believe, but because my husband is not that caring I was home alone, my kids could care less, so I stayed i bed, I tried asking him to come home but he told be he was busy and if I thought I was having a stroke he said call an ambulance. I am alone so I stayed that way. I can hardly walk straight so I stayed in bed until my husband came home. Lat time he took me to the hospital it was i the middle of the night and he was mad and when I spoke to him he told me to shut the f**k up, so I now refuse to have him take me to the hospital because I am afraid of him insulting me because I am sick, I rather walk into the walk into the walk with my double vision then have him take me for any test.
  • Stazjia Feb 11, 2011 @ 6:33 am | delete
    I'm so sorry for you predicament. I think you should see a doctor and get your condition checked out although I understand that If you are in the USA it's not so easy as it is here in the UK. If your husband won't help you, is there no friend, neighbour or relative that will help you instead?
  • Don Apr 9, 2011 @ 3:06 pm | delete
    Not so easy?/ Oh, really?
  • Pat Feb 6, 2011 @ 11:58 pm | delete
    Last Fri. all of a sudden my left had did strange things. My thumb went to the middle of my hand and stayed there also all my fingers turned really weard. The had was very stiff. It ffightened me. I masaged it and it went back to norma. In no time at all it did the very same thing and after masaging it got better and has not happend since. I feel I should go to the Dr. and tell him. It was late on a Fri. after he was closed and he was not open on Sat. I live alone and I am 77. I hated to bother my family with it, I never married so would have to bother a niece and she had a son leaving for the Navy today so did not want to tell her. I don't know what to do, should I tell my dr. on Monday. I can't have an Mri as I have a pacemaker.
  • Stazjia Feb 7, 2011 @ 6:23 am | delete
    Please, contact your doctor. It might not be anything serious but it's much better to get things like this checked out. I'm sure your family would be sad to think you consider you would be 'bothering' them when something is worrying you. I hope you will post here again with good news that your doctor says this is nothing serious and you don't need to worry about it anymore. Alternatively, if it is a condition that needs treatment, you are getting it and everything is under control. Best wishes to you.
  • josh Feb 5, 2011 @ 5:31 pm | delete
    thanks for the story . it helps
  • EuroSquid Feb 3, 2011 @ 5:42 am | delete
    Great Lens, blessed.
  • Philippians468 Feb 2, 2011 @ 10:26 am | delete
    thank you for sharing your heart. really touched by your lens.
  • Irenemaria Jan 30, 2011 @ 11:34 am | delete
    The horror of serious sickness is putting all other things on the bak burner.
  • fayegibson Jan 27, 2011 @ 7:53 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story. My father has had a number of cardiac/arterial procedures including having carotid arteries cleaned out twice each. In each case he had severe blockage. The first time (around 1985) he was 99% blocked on one side and about 65 % on the second. Surgery was done, treating the 99% blocked first and then about a year later, opening the second one. Dad had a tremendous improvement in energy and a much improved quality of life after the first; a less noticable improvement on the second but again a gain in energy.

    Blockages were found again and on his right side, it was treated with angioplasty while on the left a stent was inserted. He has not had further problems in the last 12 years.

    Have you considered a second opinion? We were cautioned in each case of intervention that there was an increased risk of stroke during the procedure but we chose to correct the problem and do not regret the choice. Best wishes to you!
  • RinchenChodron Jan 15, 2011 @ 7:39 pm | delete
    I have a-fib and that can cause a stroke - I'm 4X more likely to die of a stroke than most people.
  • oc1dean Jan 10, 2011 @ 9:29 pm | delete
    If you consultant didn't mention this he should have, the usual problem with narrowed arteries is that the plaque tears, clots and the clots let go traveling to the brain. this is usually treated with aspirin, warfarin or coumadin depending on the likelihood of the tear occurring. Even if both of your arteries close up completely that may not be a problem since there are two more vertebral arteries feeding the circle of Willis which supplies blood to the brain. Your consultant should be able to tell you if those two are ok and can supply enough blood to keep you going. I have 1 artery completely closed and am actually glad of that, I may have considered closing it up via surgery if it didn't close on its own. You should be able to live a normal life. It sounded interesting that at only 55% closed it was considered inoperable since my dad had to wait until his was 85% closed before they would operate. If you do operate ask very insistently what they are doing to prevent debris from going to the brain.
  • PaulOnBooks Jan 10, 2011 @ 5:49 am | delete
    My father (86 and with various issues including high BP and diet-controlled diabetes) has had a couple of scares that turned out to be false alarms -- I can only be amazed at the way you've dealt with things compared with our concerns.

    One thing about the UK NHS - sometimes it can indeed take too long for an initial appointment but I've foundn that once you're "in the system" subsequent appointments do get made quite quickly.
  • Stazjia Jan 10, 2011 @ 6:28 am | delete
    I am so thankful for the UK's National Health Service (NHS). I dread to think how we would have managed without it.

    I hope your father continues in good health and keeps his BP and diabetes under control.
  • BarbaraCasey Jan 9, 2011 @ 7:11 pm | delete
    Yes, I had a small stroke in 2001... and am now on cholesterol medicine to keep the arteries (in my head) clear. Neck arteries were fine. I didn't have all the symptoms - just difficulty speaking for about a day. After that wake-up call, I now get my cholesterol checked every 6 months and eat a healthier diet. Thanks for sharing your experience. An informative and moving lens.
  • debsgreatfinds Jan 8, 2011 @ 9:51 am | delete
    Hi I had a Stroke back in May 2007 I was 48 I also made a lens on what happened to me, Both sides of my arteries on my neck were 90% blocked, they did surgery and cleaned mine out! I am now 52 and doing okay mine was from Smoking I quite that Sunday when it happened back in 2007. I am still kind of weak on my left side when I get tired! Stop by send me a message if you would like to talk :)
  • GingerBarritt Dec 30, 2010 @ 4:07 am | delete
    Thank you for the sharing...
  • Carol B. Dec 29, 2010 @ 9:01 pm | delete
    This story has scared me and has helped me. 2 weeks ago, I suffered a similar situation. My mini stroke was no where near the severity of yours. I am now going through all the test that you mentioned above. Thank you for letting me know what I could be in for, it has taken alot of the questions off my mind. I am only 39 and have 4 children so this is going to be a long and hard road.
  • Claude Dec 29, 2010 @ 12:22 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing your story. My father is having some TIA like symptoms now. He is also a diabetic heart patient on blood thinners and is in the hospital. Good work on keeping to more purposeful things. Keep writing.
  • MarkUpshaw Dec 24, 2010 @ 2:50 am | delete
    Great way to turn lemons into lemonade and help others. Thank you for sharing.
  • jackiebolen Dec 18, 2010 @ 9:00 am | delete
    You have a very interesting story
  • WorldVisionary Dec 7, 2010 @ 12:35 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story. You've obviously been through a lot. The information you've presented here will help others. Thank you for putting this lens together!
  • Dec 7, 2010 @ 12:18 pm | delete
    I am sorry to hear about your mini stroke. Thanks for all the great information on this Lens you did a very good job. If you can check out my site. Thanks. This is my site here -> nibiru
  • chemknitsblog Dec 4, 2010 @ 12:22 pm | delete
    My grandmother recently had some mini strokes, and I'm thankful that she is just about where she was before the strokes. Thank you for sharing this very personal journey. I hope that you health stays stable. *Blessed by an angel
  • John Fitzpatrick, Calgary Canada Dec 1, 2010 @ 4:39 pm | delete
    Thank you for this. My brother in law is the same age as you are and has just yesterday had his second TIA. It helps me understand what he is going through. I have had a few health scares my self but am still around. I have a Golden Retriever (I saw the picture of you and your dogs on the beach) and watching him in the snow is very theraputic. May you see many more Olympics!
  • ChristieB Nov 29, 2010 @ 8:06 am | delete
    What a brave story to tell. Thanks for sharing your heart in this format...I'm sure it will help others!
  • stroke Nov 29, 2010 @ 12:53 am | delete
    Thanks for this testimonial, we help stroke patients to recover thanks to our TCM treatment. We have good results with any kind of stroke, whether ischemic or hemorrhagic, we can double your chance to recover.
  • puerdycat Nov 22, 2010 @ 11:39 am | delete
    Thanks for this. Its so important everybody know what a stroke looks like. Sometimes there's only a co-worker or a stranger to know enough to get help!
  • aesta1 Nov 13, 2010 @ 2:54 am | delete
    I can just imagine what it is to know that you are on the verge but happy that squidoo has given you a new challenge. Thank you for sharing.
  • aesta1 Nov 13, 2010 @ 2:54 am | delete
    I can just imagine what it is to know that you are on the verge but happy that squidoo has given you a new challenge. Thank you for sharing.
  • Margo_Arrowsmith Nov 12, 2010 @ 7:53 pm | delete
    So important and not enough people write about it!
  • livingfrontiers Nov 9, 2010 @ 4:35 pm | delete
    Great job on telling your story! This is a common problem, and everyone should hear it! Thank you so much for getting the message out.
  • PurplePansy Nov 9, 2010 @ 3:38 am | delete
    Thank you for taking the time to write about your experiences, despite it being difficult. A friend of mine once had a TIA. That's why I stopped to read. I never stopped to think about how his current state of health is.
  • alteredkat Oct 20, 2010 @ 11:17 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing your personal story with us...and keeping others informed...blessed and featured here: http://www.squidoo.com/100-blessings
  • frances Oct 19, 2010 @ 7:19 pm | delete
    My mother-in-law had a major stroke followed by many more mini-strokes over several years. It wasn't a good time for her.

    I hope you are spared all of that. You are very brave to tell your story so unflinchingly. Wishing you the best of luck...
  • my_never_bored_hands Oct 18, 2010 @ 11:08 am | delete
    Unfortunately I do know what stroke it is. My mother had two strokes within two months at age of 43, I believe. While some strokes are caused by bleeding in the brain, the vast majority are ischemic strokes... My mother second stroke was a combination of both strokes, and as a result she was paralyzed and fell in coma for couple of months. I was 9 years old at that time. She survived, because she believed that she must to do so and simply had no other choice: three her children and a husband were waiting for her at home. I do remember her learning everything from "0" after that (talking, her first steps... as she learned how to crochet to regain strength in her fingers...). 4 years later she had a mini-stroke, and she again come back to a full normal life, because she always believed that she will do it.
  • Stazjia Oct 18, 2010 @ 12:26 pm | delete
    What a marvellous woman. Thank you for telling me about her. Perhaps you should write a lens about her too.
  • Blurasis Oct 18, 2010 @ 7:02 am | delete
    Sorry to hear your troubles. One of my parents' good friends had a stroke and has been paralyzed for the past 8 years.
  • huvalbd Oct 15, 2010 @ 6:56 pm | delete
    My grandfather had a small stroke in his later years. Thank you for posting this lens. It's a good one and will probably help someone, somewhere, who otherwise might not realize what's happening and get help in time.
  • Heather426 Oct 8, 2010 @ 2:59 am | delete
    No I have no experience with it, but my mother did have a stroke which blinded her. So sad to lose your abilities. Thank you for sharing your story.
  • ClassyGals Oct 6, 2010 @ 6:48 pm | delete
    No, but my heart goes out to you and anyone that has had mini stroke.
  • Cindy S. Oct 6, 2010 @ 4:31 pm | delete
    My boyfriend had a TIA a few years ago before I met him. He was in his 40's and was operating a tow motor at work at the time of his TIA. Thank God neither he nor anyone else was harmed. He has told me of his experience, including having numerous tests & re-testing performed, eventually learning that there was no damage from the TIA. His only lasting side effect has been the onset of diabetes which his physician manages with pills & monitoring. I am very grateful that you were willing to share your experience. It has helped me to understand the how and why of his mini-stroke, as well as what we might experience in the future. Thank you again, for your courage. In my view, you have accomplished with this lens what you had determined its purpose.
  • Paul in Elk Grove, California - USA Oct 5, 2010 @ 2:11 pm | delete
    We can transplant a pigs heart into a human.. You would think we could transplant some pig arteries into a human. They would have to stop your heart for a couple minutes while they stitch in the replacement arteries, and then restart the heart, but they should be able to do it. I don't know about the UK, but I have a donor sticker on my drivers license. I would think they could find a donor for that artery... Perhaps I have watched too many movies, perhaps it can't be done, but I would seek some more opinions... Thank you for sharing your story and I wish you the best.
  • darciefrench Oct 3, 2010 @ 10:21 am | delete
    Not a stroke, at least as far as I know, but I have had some major changes in brain chemistry. By your writing it sounds like you've worked hard to let go of the fear of the future and to live in the moment. It takes a lot of energy and concentration to do that- kudos to you :)
  • Stazjia Oct 3, 2010 @ 3:58 pm | delete
    Yes, you understand exactly what I try to do. Sometimes, of course, it doesn't work but a lot of the time I can do it because I must.
  • mukunda22 Oct 1, 2010 @ 11:44 pm | delete
    Thank you for telling us your story. We can all relate, I am sure.
  • _Joan_ Oct 1, 2010 @ 12:10 am | delete
    Back to give an Angel blessing to one of the best lenses I've ever read.
  • Cheron Sep 29, 2010 @ 3:12 am | delete
    Thanks for telling us all about your traumatic experience. I too have had a TIA in 2003, at that time I thought my world was over, career, life as I knew it. I do still suffer from side effects but I am blessed to say that I am still living and was able to go back to school and earn a Bachelors and Master's degree in business. I can safely say that there is life after a stroke. I was only 26 at the time and I remember during my stay in rehabilitation I met a man who was a nurse and he suffered a stroke. Seeing him in the condition he was in, unable to recall daily objects (i.e. watch), say or spell his own name was by far the most difficult things to witness because he was an RN and when he returned home he would no longer be able to have the same life he was accustomed to. A whole new experience that none of us would be able to endure without an adequate support system and love from family members. Thanks again for sharing your story it does take courage to open yourself up to the public and i commend you for it. God bless.
  • dotvalone Sep 22, 2010 @ 9:04 pm | delete
    I admire your matter-of-fact writing style and attitude. I'll use you as an inspiration when I feel like crawling into a hole.
  • Sep 19, 2010 @ 6:37 am | delete
    I came over here to thank you for blessing my site, but reading your very personal story has given me more important things to think about. Your calm no-nonsense acceptance of a difficult situation makes me feel very humble and at the same time inspires me to really experience every single day. My sincere thanks to you now are for making me stop, pause and really think about life.
  • TheHealthGuy Sep 17, 2010 @ 1:43 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing your personal story. My aunt had a stroke and it has created similar life changes as you have experienced. Hopefully your story may help others who suffer and better yet save a life because someone did read your story which gave them knowledge that ultimately saved their own or a loved ones life. Cool job.
  • The-Java-Gal Sep 14, 2010 @ 7:18 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing such a personal story, as it will help many understand the need for speed, and although everything may seem okay on the outside, the inside may be not so good. We need to hear your story, to help remind us that we still have the responsibility to make our life as livable and enjoyable as possible. And your courage is a wonderful and precious gift bestowed upon others.

    My dad fell and it caused short term memory problems (affected carotid arteries.) He could no longer enjoy books, because he could not remember the beginning of a chapter by the end of the chapter. Over 20 years, it developed into full-blown Alzheimer's.

    We tend not to pay attention to our brain, until there is something dramatic that happens, and that is why I am becoming passionate about brain health, in all it's forms.

    Thank you once again for sharing your story, and keep your energy focused on what you can do, and treasure each accomplishment. I will be checking back to read more from you.
  • Greekgeek Sep 13, 2010 @ 10:41 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story and your courage, Stazjia. Having to cope with far less severe health issues -- an eye infection that nearly blinded me for a while -- I have some inkling how hard it is for someone already dealing with depression to deal with yet another weight...and yet I don't know what THIS is like at all.

    Hang in there. Keep working on the things you can do, and try not to let the things you can't outweigh your accomplishments.

    I have a friend with a congenital heart defect being kept alive by an internal defibrillator -- dang thing goes off all the time -- and sooner or later, it won't be enough. It's hard for her. Some days she feels really lousy. But she's survived, she's written wonderful stories, she's gone back to college, she's worked, she's even gone to Japan for half a year to teach. Knowing she may go at any time, she still lives, and refuses to give up on life. It's not at all easy for her, and she's got rocky patches of depression, but she keeps going. I have so much admiration for her, and for you. She really taught me the meaning of that ancient Latin saying, Cum spiro, spero: While I breathe, I hope.
  • Stazjia Sep 13, 2010 @ 12:14 pm | delete
    Thank you so much for that. It's true, there's always somebody worse off. I'm not in pain, I can get about, I'm not housebound, I have friends and family.

    Your friend is an inspiration and obviously a very brave person.
  • Robin Jernigan Sep 12, 2010 @ 3:59 am | delete
    Hi. My if you take a shot glass and mix one part apple cider vineagar and a equal part honey and drink this 2 times a day it will help your problem. One shot vineagar and one shot honey mixed. Google MMS and read about the miracle mineral supplement it helps also. You can get better. I promise. Robin Jernigan
  • hotbrain Sep 12, 2010 @ 1:10 am | delete
    Thanks for writing your story here. It was interesting to read. I'm sorry to hear that there is no cure for it. Perhaps someday they will figure something out.
  • M_Ann_Musselman Sep 11, 2010 @ 5:33 pm | delete
    Hi,
    You didn't explain what TIA is, and I've never heard of it before. I just looked it up and it looks like mini-stroke is a description of TIA. So you don't have to answer the question for me. I hope you live to see all the Olympic games that you want to see, and then some. It is possible.

    Marsha

    ps. I'll be sure to check out some of your other articles.

    Since you enjoy writing, you may want to check out a writing site. It doesn't pay anything, but it's a great resource for critiquing and reading new material. http://www.writing.com/authors/sha4852
  • Stazjia Sep 12, 2010 @ 4:20 am | delete
    Thanks for your good wishes, Marsha. Right at the beginning, in the bold text, I say that TIA is a transient ischemic attack. That is the medical name for a mini-stroke, or at least the kind I had. I shall make it clearer that TIA is the medical term and mini-stroke is what we laymen call it.
  • gmarlett Sep 10, 2010 @ 10:27 am | delete
    Thanks for sharing your story with the world, it is very inspirational and you are a very brave person! It is truly through our weaknesses that we become stronger and empowered, painful as it is. If there is an afterlife, I believe you will be there in spirit! Glad you found Squidoo.
  • Photahsiamirabel Sep 8, 2010 @ 11:21 am | delete
    My father went through something similar the Christmas before last. It was all very frightening. Thank you for writing about it and sharing it because people need to know it can happen to anyone - and they need to act fast! Sending very best wishes to you, Lisa
  • Rivo Sep 3, 2010 @ 8:54 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing. You have shown great strength. I am plagued by a chronic illness myself...insulin dependent diabetes for about 20 years. If I may add one thing.. I believe in God and the afterlife...can't begin to believe that this complex human being will just go back to the earth. My body will...but not the "ME". Hope you find it in you to believe one day. Keep strong. Lots of respect.
  • greatdomainnow Aug 25, 2010 @ 4:30 am | delete
    Very well done. I am sure that this lens will be of much benefit to many...good job...thumbs up!
  • Wednesday_Elf Aug 17, 2010 @ 11:53 am | delete
    What a scary time you went through, Carol, and now live with. I admire your courage, not only for sharing your experience with others, but in trying to live your life to the fullest every day. The idea of a 'stroke' scares me more than any other ailment our bodies can be afflicted with. I've seen the effects in my mother-in-law years ago and would hate to be 'helpless' myself! Thank you for sharing, not only your personal story, but your positive outlook on life! My best to you.
  • Wkrol Aug 9, 2010 @ 3:55 pm | delete
    What a fantastic thought to share your health concerns with others. Years ago, we would probably be holed up in a bedroom waiting for the final days to come and today we can actually share our thoughts with others. Thank you so very much and I'm a believer and I promise to pray for your health and happiness!
  • LoKackl Aug 3, 2010 @ 9:56 am | delete
    So wonderful Carol that you used your mini stroke to focus your life and loves and to use it to help others at Squidoo. Thank you so much for sharing your story.
  • GrowWear Aug 3, 2010 @ 5:56 am | delete
    Dear Carol, your attitude is so admirable. You are teaching a lot here to folks with conditions like yours, and you told your story beautifully. I wish you much, much more time to enjoy life and to keep that pen moving with your words.
  • Mary Beth Jul 31, 2010 @ 2:20 pm | delete
    You have shared your experience in a very meaningful way...thank you for sharing!
  • resabi Jul 30, 2010 @ 4:11 pm | delete
    Such an important article to read. Thank you for going past your discomfort to share this experience. I've dealt with some of the issues you have faced, although my disease is different. And a near relative has serious blockages in both carotid arteries although he is asymptomatic. I admire the way you are choosing to handle your condition and I thank you for sharing it with others in the interests of helping someone else. I lensrolled you to my Crohn's lens, since that is my most relevant lens and I think much of what you write is sound advice for anyone with a chronic illness. Thank you. Sending you all best wishes and hopes for the Olympics and all that represents in terms of your hopes and dreams.
  • rting2005@yahoo Jul 30, 2010 @ 2:37 pm | delete
    I relate to this artical. I had several tia's just over a year ago. First my left sholder went numb then the rest of my arm then my left legg went. It would come back. Went on for a week. I was still trying to work then it got really bad a friend took me to the er. Well the results were I couldn't walk a little and could not think or remember much at all. I figured I was done. I was by my self prety helpless so I figured I would gust end it. Did not work a friend came by when I did not answer my phone. Took about a year to get back close to normal about 90% but no stamina. I was luckey I had loved ones that realy cared more than I did. Computer games helped me most helped me make new thinking conections (pogo). Realy glad I saw this artical Thanks, I'm not the only one.
  • Stazjia Jul 30, 2010 @ 4:06 pm | delete
    How very hard it must have been for you to be by yourself after you had the TIAs. I'm so glad your loved ones helped you and that your condition has improved.

    I'm pretty certain that doing anything on a computer or the internet is a big help in keeping the brain going after a TIA and, as you say, it helps to rebuild connections. If I didn't write on Squidoo and other places, as well as play computer games from time to time, I'm sure my short term memory would be much worse than it is and maybe other functions would have deteriorated as well.

    I don't think that the computer is the only way of keeping the brain active and improving its function after a mini-stroke. I expect that any constant mental activity like hard crosswords, sudoku, maybe drawing and painting, etc, would all help.
  • BevsPaper Jul 30, 2010 @ 9:15 am | delete
    Carol, first of all I'm so glad that you are still with us. Whether you know it or not this lens will help others to see the symptoms in themselves or someone they are with. It could make the difference of survival or not. One of my clerks suffered a TIA earlier this year, he is only 44. They couldn't operate on his condition. Here's to you seeing those 2012 Olympics!
  • Stazjia Jul 30, 2010 @ 10:36 am | delete
    Thanks for that. I really hope that this page will help somebody identify the symptoms quickly and possibly minimise any damage.

    I'm still counting down to the Olympics. In almost exactly 2 years time they will be taking place.
  • kimmanleyort Jul 30, 2010 @ 7:34 am | delete
    Featured today at Squidoo Lens Reviews. Stop by and pick up a badge if you'd like!
    http://blog.growwear.com/living-one-day-at-a-time/
  • Stazjia Jul 30, 2010 @ 10:37 am | delete
    Kim, thank you so much for that astounding review of this page. I appreciate it very much.
  • GuyB Jul 12, 2010 @ 6:34 pm | delete
    Thanks for opening up, I'm sure that must have been difficult. Reading your lens, I can tell that you are a strong person and mentally tough. I wish you the best of luck and thank you so much for sharing.
  • BooJeeBeads Jun 27, 2010 @ 3:12 pm | delete
    My father had several mini strokes before the doctors finally diagnosed it right. The first trip to the emergency room (it was over by the time he got there) was diagnosed as bad gas. To me that is still shocking that the doctor did not investigate it further.
    Everyone should know these signs and get help immediatly and do not take just one doctors opinion on the matter.
  • Npallotti Jun 11, 2010 @ 4:02 pm | delete
    Im so happy to know that there are so many others out there that are going through the same thing as me. Im only 22 years old and have to live in fear everyday of haivng a fullblown stroke. Im scared to drive and be alone with my three kids. I know that the chances for me to have a full on stroke are probably more slim than an older adult but at the same time my chances are alot higher than someone my age. My insurance wont pay (without a fight) for my MRI/MRA so my GP and I are still working really hard at getting that taken care of. I have started a group on Facebook called (Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) Awareness) in hopes that all of us going through this can support each other and share our stories. So if you are already on Facebook then please join my group and lets try to make others more aware of this. Some people wont even realize that they have a TIA and may go untreated which we all know can result in a Stroke.
  • Stazjia Jun 11, 2010 @ 4:14 pm | delete
    What a hard thing to face at your age. I hope you can find a way to have the necessary scans. I am lucky to be in the UK where we have a National Health Service so medical costs are covered. I'll certainly look for your group on Facebook. Good luck.
  • reasonablerobinson Jun 9, 2010 @ 5:03 pm | delete
    I'm very pleased to have read this lens. Two days ago my father went for a neurological assessment and the consultant suspects that a mini stroke might be cause of shuffling as he starts to walk. He reassurred my father that the brain can be retrained to compensate for the inability 'to get going'. He will be having an MRI scan to confirm. When he say the physio therapist immediately after the consultation she advised that he gently swayed from side to side two to three times before stepping forward. This was an astonishing and instant improvement to my dad's mobility and consequently his morale and confidence. Thank you again for sharing such a personal story in this lens. It means that people such as our family feel less alone in situations like this. Kind regards RR.
  • Stazjia Jun 10, 2010 @ 4:09 am | delete
    RR, I'm so sorry to hear about your father but a mini stroke is a warning and hopefully he'll make a full recovery in time. The consultant told me that I'd sustained a very small amount of damage to my brain (she actually showed me on the scan) and said that new pathways would be made to compensate for this damage.

    I hope your father gets his confidence back and finds he can live a full and happy life with the additional comfort of knowing that he is receiving medical treatment (I assume) to make a further mini stroke or other cardiovascular incident less likely.
  • Jewelsofawe Jun 7, 2010 @ 12:45 pm | delete
    Wow! Sorry to hear this. I had a mini stroke last year and it was scary. My left arm got weak and I could not use it for a while. Then everything returned to normal. I also had visual disturbances. Blessing this lens!
  • Donna from Alabama May 8, 2010 @ 11:46 pm | delete
    Read this; thank you so much. My mother just had this happen this morning; I'm not sure if it may not have actually happened at least right after I was talking to her on the phone. She said her throat was sore then started hollering like she was in pain, then said she was going to go take an aspirin. I had a call come in from my son so I let her go, then went with my husband to the dump (wihch he was planning to do a few weeks ago only I wound up in the ER with my tooth, anyway) then called to check back with her when I got back and couldn't get them (her and my dad); I tried not to panic hoping they were out just enjoying the day but no, when I did get my dad he'd just come back from the hospital. She had fallen, he said; when she got up from the table where she was looking at the new medicine she just got yesterday(which she was doing while we were on the phone because we were discussing it), he said she came over to the couch where he was sitting and almost sat down on him then when she tried to move she just fell over on the floor and he couldn't get her up. I don't think he actually realized what had happened at the point because he tried to call the neighbor to just come help him get her up but he wasn't home so then he call 9-1-1 and the ambulance came. We're not really sure she did actually have a stroke; none of the tests are coming back with anything but like you said that may be just calling for more tests but the reason they thought she had one was because of her face drooping but she actually had been like that for about 10 years from when she had Bell's Palsy but neither of them thought to tell anybody that but I'm kinda glad because I don't know what would have happened if they had decided she hadn't had a stroke because she doesn't remember anything about what happened so something happened. I'm kinda hoping it was just some kind of reaction to this new medicine but in case it was more I'm so glad they went ahead and took precautions and gave her the "stroke shot" for blood clots. You didn't say anything about that; do they not have that over there?
  • Stazjia May 9, 2010 @ 4:59 am | delete
    I hope your mother recovers quickly and that the doctors find out what is wrong. I actually can't remember if I had a shot for strokes. I had a lot of treatment, first by the paramedics when they arrived in the ambulance and then by the doctors and nurses when I arrived at hospital.
  • Dallas May 8, 2010 @ 7:59 pm | delete
    Hi, and thanks for sharing your experiences. I guess I'm surprised by your doctor's response saying it was inoperable. The reason I say this, and also why I think you should search for a 2nd opinion is from my own experience. In Jan/07 I, too suffered a mini stroke. It only last about 10-15 mins and once I laid down I began to feel better. I thought I was fine again until two toes on my left foot began turning blue, then black. My partner took me to a walk-in clinic (I didn't have health insurance at that time) and they scanned my carotid arteries after doing my legs and torso area. I have blockages throughout my body but they also discovered that both of my carotids were blocked 80% equally. The surgeon was afraid I'd have another stroke over the weekend but I was scheduled early MOnday morning to have the buildup that's blocking the artery removed. He removed the buildup on the one side and then I was scheduled to have the other one done 2 mths later, to which I did. They remain completely open since then and altho the blockages in the rest of my body is disabling, the carotids are good for another 50 yrs as the surgeon joked to me. I was 49 then, am 52 now. So I know they can be done safely because they did me and I'm just offering this to you because I feel you should seriously consider getting another opinion. Take care of yourself and thanks for listening. *~:)
  • Stazjia May 9, 2010 @ 4:53 am | delete
    Thank you for taking the trouble to write this to me. I will check with my doctor again. Perhaps there is something that can be done for me. I'm glad your carotids are good for another 50 years and I hope that they can soon do something for the other blockages.
  • Peter from the USA. May 6, 2010 @ 1:45 pm | delete
    Read this a few times and have to thank you for writing your story. I had a heart attach this past November and was basically dead for an hour before they got me back. Three months later I was sitting watching a Basketball game and my left side went numb. The left side of my face felt heavy and for 10 min. this went on. I did not go to a Dr. (my fault) When I did I had another heart problem and ended up back in the hospital. I know have (after 4 months) a terrible headache, weakness on my left side and in two weeks will see a specialist. The Dr's in hospital said it was a mini stroke and that I should progress. I have not and in reality have not since my first major heart problem felt good. I have retired at 55 so I can hopefully heal. I hope you do well and enjoy the Olympics.
  • Stazjia May 6, 2010 @ 4:08 pm | delete
    Try to stay positive and, even though you don't feel good, do whatever you can to enjoy your life. I hope you do feel much better soon. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
  • bethd821 Apr 29, 2010 @ 7:31 am | delete
    I am glad you survived your ordeal to write this powerful lens. I am sorry that you experienced this. Thank you for sharing your story. Lensrolling to Surviving A Heart Attack. Wishing you strength and many more birthdays and Olympics to come!
  • Stazjia Apr 29, 2010 @ 7:44 am | delete
    I've just read your lens about surviving a heart attack and I was moved and impressed. Thank you for your kind words.
  • WordCustard Apr 29, 2010 @ 3:33 am | delete
    In addition to being a powerful message to others about stroke awareness, this lens is a tribute to your own courage (and also, I would say, to friendship and having someone who took care of you during a frightening time). May you stay healthy and see many more Olympics to come. Wishing you all the very best, and an ~*~* Angel Blessing *~*~ for this lens.
  • Stazjia Apr 29, 2010 @ 5:09 am | delete
    Thank you for the Blessing, I'm always thrilled when a lens of mine gets one. I wrote this with the two thoughts: one was to heighten people's awareness of strokes and their early symptoms and to thank my best friend, Sylvie, for her care and thoughtfulness - still ongoing today, I might add.
  • purplelady Apr 28, 2010 @ 7:01 pm | delete
    I have to agree with the others who said "Thank You" for sharing such a personal story. That is not easy to do. I also have to admire your courage and determination to keep your life as normal as possible. You are an excellent writer and have created some beautiful lenses. I want to read more of what you have created so in addition to the 5 stars, a lens roll and major socializing; I will Fave this so I can find you at any time. Don't worry, I am not stalking you. :>)

    I am older than you and worry about strokes and end of life, not dying, but being kept alive on machines. I share your views on religion and end of life care. My heartfelt best wishes to you and your continued Squidooing.
  • Stazjia Apr 29, 2010 @ 5:07 am | delete
    It seems logical to me to keep going and not panic. If I spent my time worrying about having a major stroke, I would be so annoyed if I was killed crossing the road! :)

    Thank you for your kind words and good wishes, I appreciate them.
  • KathyMcGraw Apr 28, 2010 @ 12:35 am | delete
    Carol, thank you for sharing your story...it was really hard for me to read, but i am glad I read it. I have no words other than my heart is with you.....
  • Stazjia Apr 28, 2010 @ 4:22 am | delete
    Thank you, Kathy.
  • RinchenChodron Apr 26, 2010 @ 10:18 am | delete
    Thanks for this great lens! Best wishes on the Giant 100 Club. I have not had a stroke yet - but have high blood pressure and am experiencing atrial-fib so I'm a candidate. I appreciate hearing your story.
  • Stazjia Apr 26, 2010 @ 12:09 pm | delete
    Thank you. I hope that you get your blood pressure under control and never have a stroke.
  • HorseAndPony Apr 16, 2010 @ 5:28 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing such an personal story. You are a very strong and brave person. I have many health issues that I constantly keep under control. I do need to be extra careful with my health. Blessed by a SquidAngel!
  • Airinka Apr 10, 2010 @ 1:31 am | delete
    It was hard to read...
  • BPninja Mar 30, 2010 @ 4:00 am | delete
    thanks for sharing
  • ldy28km Mar 23, 2010 @ 5:12 pm | delete
    Hi, Stazjia. Strokes are very common here in the US, and can be very serious reguardless how minor. Strokes effect not only the person who is having them, but as well as the whole family. I'm sorry to hear you had to experience it, and I know it's hard coping with the aftermath. I know you didn't fully recover after your TIA, but I am very glad to hear that you can still maintain the majority of your functions, and I think it's great that your writing about it. I think it gives strength and courage to others who have suffered from a stroke. Your lens was very educational, and informative, and I know a lot of people can benefit from reading it. Good luck to you, and remain positive.
  • Stazjia Mar 23, 2010 @ 5:58 pm | delete
    Thank you, Kimberly, for your good wishes. I do remain positive and I make a lot of notes because of problems with my short term memory. With enough concentration, though, I can still remember what it is I've forgotten, if you see what I mean! Looking on the bright side, I had to retire earlier than I expected and I'm enjoying retirement and mostly doing what I feel like doing rather than what I must do. I guess it's a question of lemons and lemonade, you can choose how to live with the bad stuff that happens to all of us from time to time.
  • Pied_Piper66 Mar 8, 2010 @ 4:59 pm | delete
    You're right to be afraid of a stroke, I had an anuerysm in my cerabellum back in 1994. I was only 42 at the time and was surprised because I thought that strokes only happened to old people, but I found out that an anuerysm can happen at any age. Anyway, a stroke is so bad that I wouldn't wish one on my worst enemy. Fortunately, I wasn't paralyzed, but I'll never walk again because your cerabellum controls your balance.

    You're right to say that you need to find the right doctor. Too many people think that all doctors have godlike status. Doctors are people too. They just went to school for a long time.

    I got a little disillutioned with doctors when a year and half after my stroke, my doctor said that she didn't want to see me anymore! That's when I realized that Western medicine tries to prevent strokes, but after you've had one, the goal of Western medicine is just to stabilize you, not make you better.
    .
    This revelation has led me to look into alternative medicine. I've found a couple of therapys that have been beneficial to me, but I've also found a couple that may be beneficial to you.

    The first of these is called cheletion therapy. This therapy was developed by a cardiologist in the U.S. who was doing a third heart bypass on a guy. The patient ended up dying on the table so this cardioloist thought that their had to be a better way.

    By the way, arterial plaque dosn't just consist of cholesteral. It's made up of cholesteral, trycliycerides and about ten other substances that are in the blood. The substance that acts as the glue holding all this together is calcium.

    The cardiologist that I was talking about before knew this and found out that the drilling industry sometimes has a problem with calcium from the earth getting into and blocking shafts that have already been drilled. They clear these shafts with a process called chelation. The chemical they use is called EDTA. They dump the EDTA down the shaft and it dissolves the calcium.

    The cardiologist that I mentioned earlier, developed a therapy where EDTA is gradually introduced to the bloodstream via I.V.. Naturally, this has to be done very slowly so that a clot doesn't break off from the plaque and cause death or a stroke. In other words, it should only be done by a doctor thats done it before. .

    The other therapy that may be beneficial to you is the external counterpulsation machine.
    This machine consists of two main parts. A heart moniter and air bladders that wrap around your legs kind of like the "g" suit that jet fighter pilots wear.

    What happens is that when the heart moniter registers a hearbeat, the air bladders around the legs immediately inflate, thereby forcing more blood into your abdomen and head. This forces the arteries in the abdomen and head to expand to handle the extra bloodflow.

    The interesting thing is that this machine has been approved by the Food and Drug Adminstration in the U.S, for the use of treating angina. I've read that some angina patients feel no angina after only a week of using the machine.

    I have no idea if the NHS would have this machine, but try calling cardiologists to see if one is available.

    A doctor that I saw for my stroke has one. He has an indroductory video for his clinic in L.A.. The video briefly shows his external counterpulsation machine.The number for the clinic is 1-800-300-1063. This clinic used to be set up just to provide hyperbaric oxygen treatment for stroke patients, but over the last few years Dr. Steenblock has done a lot of research involving stem cells. In fact, his research may be able to help you out with your diabetes.

    You mention going to the library a lot. I would advise you to read all you can about alternative medicine.

    A good place to start would be a book called "The Calcium Factor" by Dr. Carl Reich and Robert Barefoot. If your library doesn't have it, you can order it at 1-800-899-8349. The book is free, you just have to pay the shipping. which could be exorbitant to the UK.

    Also, since the book is free, they're in no hurry to ship your order. The last copy I got took three weeks to ship.

    Lastly, on the medical side, there is a guy named Dr. Young Soo Kim who claims to have an all natural treatment for diabetes. He has an information number at 1-800-628-9975.

    The most important point I can make is that you need to take control of your health and not just leave it up to the doctors. I wouldn't trust the guy who said you should just let the artery clog up all the way. Nature gave you that artery for a reason, it shouldn't just be written off.

    I am not a doctor so I recommend that you do your own research on these therapies. If you were to talk to a doctor about anything I've mentioned, he would probably say "hogwash".

    You'll find that there's no love lost between M.D.'s and practioners of alternative medicine.

    Doctors see hundreds of people each week. They can't treat each person they see as if they were a family member.

    I have a feeling that if you do make a positive improvement in your health, that will help alleviate the depression.

    When I'm feeling sorry for myself I think of somebody who is worse off. One guy I think of often is the guy who was my roommate in the hospital.

    He was hit by a car while riding his bike to work. When he first woke up he was a quadraplegic.After a couple of weeks he regained the use of his arms, but was still paralyzed from the chest down. He was told that he would be that way permanently.

    Recently, I've started telling myself that, "this is the only life I'm going to get so you better make the most of it". Perhaps a similar philosophy would be good for you.
    Good luck on your journey,
    Craig Stanford
  • Stazjia Mar 9, 2010 @ 3:22 am | delete
    Thank you very much for your long and detailed post. I'm going to read it again and I will definitely research the treatments you mention as well as find out what else might be available here in the UK for the condition I have. I really appreciate the time and effort you put into giving me this information.
  • BAThorne Feb 25, 2010 @ 1:42 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing your story! I am 42, and in excellent health. Within the last 8 days, I have had 2 suspected TIA's where I lost the ability to speak properly for a few minutes each time. (no face drooping or anything like that.) I can't get an MRI till next week. What I worry about is that because mine were evident through the slurred speech, can they be happening at other times when I'm not talking and so Im not aware? Also, I regularly am in client meetings and am mortified at the thought that this could happen again in a meeting like that!! It's very scary. Everyone's story helps so thank you for sharing yours.
  • OhMe Feb 8, 2010 @ 8:20 am | delete
    My husband had a mild stroke several years ago (milder than yours) and recently had a Carotid Stint inserted. He is doing great. It is for sure that none of us knows what the future will bring. I am so glad that Squidoo has helped and I am sure that is the case with many lensmasters. This lens will be a big help to anyone suffering the same thing.
  • Treasures-By-Brenda Feb 2, 2010 @ 5:29 pm | delete
    I've noticed they are really emphasizing that people should call 911 if they think that they are having a stroke or heart attack. Minutes are precious. Sounds like you and your friend did exactly the right thing. That can be hard to do. It's a brave thing you have done sharing your story here.
  • Debby Jan 27, 2010 @ 12:30 pm | delete
    I had a similar problem last year just before me 60th birthday. It all began with a large blood clot in the venous sinus areas in the back of my head that blocked my right jugular. Upon admittance to the hospital, I was told I was lucky I hadn't had a stroke or in a coma. After a week, I was released on blood thinners. The following week, I had a TIA. Unfortunately, the doctors were focused on the clot and didn't realize what was happening.

    After dissatisfaction with my hospital appointed neurologist and daily debilitating headaches over a four month period, I selected another neurologist who was intent on understanding what was happening to me. What a relief to find someone to listen!

    After numerous tests, he discovered I had a hole in my heart, contributing to the TIA, that had to be repaired. He also referred me to an interventional neuroradiologist where I learned I had fibro muscular displasia (FMD) and an 80% blockage of the right vertebral artery in my head and a pseudo aneurysm.

    The blockage has now been reduced to ~30% with the aid of a stent and the aneurysm closed off with coils. I awoke from the procedure with no headache for the first time in nine months!

    While I will need to continue on Plavix for the rest of my life, things are starting to return to normal for me. I am doing 30 minutes of cardio and 50 minutes of weight training daily. I still have a long way to go to reach my previous fitness level, but I will get there. I will also have another angiogram in April to check on the stent and FMD.

    I cannot stress enough finding the right physician. Obviously, not everything can be cured, but the right physicians can help improve quality of life. Four doctors told me I was fine, including an emergency room physician. If my husband hadn't insisted that something was wrong prompting the ER to do the CAT scan, I would have probably had a stroke by now.

    I don't know if my procedure can help you, but it might be worth checking into. What do you have to lose?
  • rcarlton Jan 23, 2010 @ 2:42 pm | delete
    my Mom was taken to hospital here in the States this week after having an experience that sounds similar to your own. tests haven't shown anything - which i'm sure you know means more tests - and we're all on pins and needles.

    she's cogent and i "hear" her when we are talking - not just her voice - but her soul too, and i'm extremely hopeful. i have to be, i could never not be.

    Stazjia, i am so very happy that you are here and able to write about your experiences - and want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your strength and giving in making your experience available for others to read.

    i very very much hope that you get to see not just the 2012 Olympics, but the 2016 ones, too. all the best from San Francisco.

    should you find yourself in my neck of the woods, won't you please drop me a line? i'd love to share my city with you.
  • Stazjia Jan 23, 2010 @ 4:25 pm | delete
    I sincerely hope your mother has had just a mini-stroke, it certainly sounds like it's not a more serious one. If that is what it is, it can be a blessing in disguise as it is a warning and can mean that preventative treatment can be given to prevent a more serious stroke. The good news is that your mother is herself and there, not lost by the effects of the event. Cling on to that hope regardless of the eventual diagnosis because she will need you to be strong for her and to encourage and understand how shocking this event can be. I myself found it to be a definite warning of my own mortality even before I knew there was worse news in store.

    I send my very best wishes to your mother, you and your family.
  • arncyn Jan 16, 2010 @ 12:14 pm | delete
    I have always seen you as one of the stronger "forces" on Squidoo so what you have shared on this lens completely moved me to tears. I greatly respect & admire you for sharing your experience with us, it must've been very difficult to write. You are inspiration to many and I sincerely wish that you may completely recover and keep on touching lives as you have just touched mine. *blessed*
  • StevenCousley Jan 14, 2010 @ 6:34 am | delete
    Very well written lens. I can relate personally to this as my wife suffered a mini-stroke last August at the age of 42. She spent the next 8 days in an acute observation unit undergoing numerous tests to track down the cause and subsequent treatment. She has almost completely recovered now but still has some slight slurring of her speech when she is tired. The whole experience is a terrifying and life changing one.
  • Stazjia Jan 14, 2010 @ 7:05 am | delete
    Gosh - 42 is so young for that to happen to your wife. At least the doctors will be keeping an eye on her now, I expect. I send my best wishes for a full recovery.
  • Kapalbility Jan 13, 2010 @ 12:08 pm | delete
    Wow, big sister. You've been through much! You're a really strong woman and I admire you more for that, and for publishing this lens, too. This made me appreciate my health and especially my parent's health more. I wish you wellness, long life and more Olympics to watch!
  • Stazjia Jan 13, 2010 @ 5:34 pm | delete
    Thanks for your good wishes, Roth. I don't know about being strong. The way I see it is you either carry on with your life or give up and make yourself and everybody else miserable. That would be such a waste of time.
  • Sylvestermouse Jan 7, 2010 @ 8:33 pm | delete
    This was the hardest lens ever for me to read. When I first read it, I couldn't even leave a comment. You are so very special to me and to so many others. How I wish I could do so much more, but tonight, on my very first day as a Squid Angel, I am returning to leave my blessings and I want you to know that I am committed to praying for a greater blessing from a much greater power and I do believe with all my heart. I will stand in the gap...
  • Stazjia Jan 8, 2010 @ 3:51 am | delete
    Cynthia, your comment brought tears to my eyes. I am honored you feel like that and that you blessed my lens on your first day as an Angel.

    Enjoy being an Angel. It can be exasperating but it's also fun and interesting. You'll see lenses you would never normally look at and sometimes you'll be amazed at how brilliant they are. Good luck and thank you.
  • augie Dec 19, 2009 @ 2:50 pm | delete
    Depression is the worst affliction in the world when it's accompanied by a physical illness. Thank you for sharing.
  • Cindy_Egan Dec 4, 2009 @ 5:24 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing your story and more about mini-strokes. You are a very brave woman! God bless you!
  • happynutritionist Dec 1, 2009 @ 9:15 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing this story...strokes are "big" in my family, so I understand what you have been through. We do have a great faith in a great God and love His word, the Bible...you love to write, why don't you go on a quest to find out that God IS real and share your quest? You said that you'd like to believe, so give it a go, and write about your journey. There isn't a lot of purpose beyond self without Him. May God make Himself real to you! Congrats on the 2009 Giant Squid Award nomination in your category:-) Enjoy the Christmas season, and I pray that you will enjoy not only the 2012 Olympics, but much more! ~claudia
  • Ngria Nov 28, 2009 @ 11:09 am | delete
    I certainly enjoyed reading your lens. I am a Nurse and my mother also experienced several TIA's and a CVA due to Atrial Fibrillation.
    Your article depicts a most courageous and inspiring woman. I am sur you have periods of discouragement but i thank you for sharing and I will exercise my faith in God and pay that your carotid Artery stenoses be opened and cleared.
  • Stazjia Nov 29, 2009 @ 8:46 am | delete
    Thank you but I don't see myself as either courageous or inspiring. I just keep on living my life in the way that makes me happiest. I'm lucky because I retired earlier than I would have done otherwise. My work was causing me an enormous amount of stress and being forced to retire was the best thing that could happen. I'm now happier and more contented than I have ever been. I'd still like to make it through to be able to watch and enjoy the 2012 London Olympics on TV, though, and would be very annoyed to die just a bit too soon! Thank you very much for your comments, I appreciate them very much.
  • lasertek Nov 25, 2009 @ 8:23 pm | delete
    My father had a mini-stroke last year. It was a shocker. I never really thought it would happen but it did. So many things have run through my mind at that moment. Will he be paralyzed? What will happen next? We called the doctor right away and he gave my dad an aspirin. After an hour or two, my dad was in a better condition.
  • JenOfChicago Nov 25, 2009 @ 11:10 am | delete
    Thanks for sharing your story and more about mini-strokes. I've known several people who had them but didn't know much about how it affects you afterwards... this is helpful!
  • Jenn Nov 21, 2009 @ 5:59 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story. I just found out that my aunt suffered a mini-stroke after her surgery to remove a 90% blockage in her cartoid artery. At this time she is in a rehab facility being evaluated.
  • Stazjia Nov 22, 2009 @ 4:17 am | delete
    I hope that things go well for your aunt and that she has suffered no or very little permanent damage.
  • Ladydove62 Nov 13, 2009 @ 10:53 am | delete
    Both of my parents have had strokes. This is an informative and very interesting lens. Thank-you for sharing.
  • _Joan_ Nov 10, 2009 @ 9:21 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story and presenting such important information at the same time.
  • Mark Nov 6, 2009 @ 8:51 am | delete
    Thanks for writing.
  • kiwisoutback Oct 16, 2009 @ 11:36 am | delete
    I can't imagine how tough it must be to have something like this happen. I'm glad you've pushed on through it and we're happy to have you here on Squidoo! Congratulations on becoming a Squid Angel, you deserve it. Squid Angel blessed for this amazing story, thanks for opening up and sharing this experience!
  • Mohammed Oct 3, 2009 @ 11:52 pm | delete
    I can relate to your condition and understand your feeling. my mother had an ischemic stroke 4 days ago which progressed to hemorrhage stroke and now she is clinically dead. i truly wish you dont go through what my mom went through, ratther i wish you get much better inshaAllah.

    one thing i'd like you to consider, but i am not preaching here, is to try to read about God. it would me a meaningless life to live & die with no hereafter. here are few links that you might find interesting:
    http://www.islamreligion.com/category/63/
    http://www.islamicity.com/Mosque/Intro_Islam.htm
    http://www.whyislam.org/NewMuslims/tabid/101/Default.aspx
    http://www.islam-guide.com/

    i truly pray for you to have a speedy recovery.

    salam
  • justforhealth Sep 25, 2009 @ 4:28 am | delete
    Great lens and very touching. Cheers to your spirit. Please keep communicating with squidoo community.
  • jeffryv Aug 9, 2009 @ 3:40 am | delete
    Thank you so much for this lens, I had a TIA just 3 weeks ago and am still in shock about.
  • Jul 23, 2009 @ 6:43 pm | delete
    What a tough thing to endure. I do wish you'd give God a chance but I won't preach. My mother was diabetic and had a mini stroke while driving my dad and I to the store to buy my unborn daughter a crib. That was scary! Her foot just went heavy and laid on the gas at a red light. It wasn't until the next week that her doctor explained it was a mini stroke. Perhaps you could do something like what I did when I was told I wouldn't see 30, I created a scrap book all about myself to pass on to my daughter so she'd know me. God still has me here for some reason, I saw 30 this past May. You're still here for a reason too. I'm glad you've found joy in Squidoo..I know writing has kept me going these past few years...It's an awesome therapy :) God Bless ~ Lis~
  • DAnnieB Jul 22, 2009 @ 11:33 pm | delete
    Great lens, how brave to share. And, yes, at 31 I had something similar happen -- I love Squidoo, it gives a place to get feelings about these things out and hopefully to help others in sharing. I plan to write about it soon as I gather my thoughts together. Thank you for sharing your story - life is full of surprises, isn't it?
  • Stazjia Jul 17, 2009 @ 4:24 am | in reply to mila | delete
    My heart goes out to you. I'm so much older than you and my children are both grown up. All I can say is what I do. I get on with my life. I'm aware that I could have a serious stroke and die, or worse, at any time but I put that to one side and concentrate on NOW. Sometimes I wonder if I'll be here for my next birthday or Christmas or even when I need to take my library books back in a couple of weeks.

    When that mood comes upon me, I deal with it by acknowledging the truth of what I'm thinking and then put it away again. I try to live each minute. I do things I have to do and I do things I enjoy doing. I don't plan for the future. I feel that worrying about it won't change my fate. Instead I must make the most of what time I have. I'd be very angry if I wasted my life now worrying then got run over by a car instead.
  • mila Jul 17, 2009 @ 12:41 am | delete
    Oh my goodness I truly know what your going thru I too had a mini stroke at the age of 36 yrs old and went totally blind in my left eye but eventually my vision came back then after many test I was diagnosed with an Atrio septal heart defect then this past year 09 I saw spots so I had an mra done and they found I have a severe stenosis of my left internal carotid. Im 39 yrs old with 3 sons ages 10, 13 and 17 yrs old! I want to live for them but feel like a walking time bomb. I pray every night that GOD will keep us together:) I have this pain in my left side of my neck its deep when I press it and it shoots to my head. It really scares me. Im still trying to find peace with it but i am so worried. Please keep me up to date with your experiences. It really helps to talk to someone! My husband doesnt have any undestanding of how serious this is or he is in total denial!???!
  • BunnyBoiler Jul 13, 2009 @ 12:42 am | delete
    I'm entranced by your story, or your life, rather. Squidoo is lucky to have people like you at the helm. Thank you for writing that! My family's been touched only briefly by strokes, but nothing too close to home. Your lens has helped me become much more aware of it's reality and impact, and I'm bookmarking it for the great resources too...Thank you again for sharing, I wish you all the happiness you can grab on this roller coaster :)

    Bunny
  • jura Jul 12, 2009 @ 9:57 am | delete
    God bless you with your health ,great lens.
  • andreaberrios Jul 12, 2009 @ 12:50 am | delete
    This is a great lens... I too suffered for a short period of time from a facial stroke. Thank God it's all gone now, but I know what you went through!! Thanks for sharing your story. 5*
  • Shelly Jul 10, 2009 @ 4:05 pm | delete
    I cried a bucket of tears as I read your story, this was a hard earned purple star for sure! Susie sent me over (sisters). You may not believe in an after life, but you sure do believe in life--I'm so glad that Squidoo has given you an avenue for your writing gift to be shared with others--there is no blockage there! Bless you!
  • Tipi Jul 10, 2009 @ 3:15 pm | delete
    Congratulations on a very good lens, well deserved. This is very well done in a great writing style. Blessings to you for health and prosperity!
    Susie
  • skiesgreen Jul 7, 2009 @ 4:46 am | delete
    What a wonderful yet sad story. You certainly have not lost your ability to communicate. This is so well written. Keep writing and communicating.
  • Webcodes Jul 6, 2009 @ 12:13 am | delete
    Your story sounds so much like my father who had a TIA, and now he is blind from one eye. In his case, he had a Carotid endarterectomy and these days he seems to be much much better after his arteries were cleared up. The lesson to be learned from the cardiologist was as follows: if the doctor tells you to take medication regularly, do it. Don't skip a day or else it could hit you like a hammer. Thanks for sharing this lens. 5* and fav.
  • susannaduffy Jul 5, 2009 @ 8:16 pm | delete
    Once again, congrats at last on your purple star!
  • CoolFoto Jul 3, 2009 @ 9:11 pm | delete
    Congrats on your Purple star! You really are a gifted writer.
  • Suzie-Shine Jul 3, 2009 @ 11:53 am | delete
    It must have been hard to write but it will surely help others. Best wishes to you.
    Suzie
  • kimmanleyort Jun 25, 2009 @ 7:24 am | delete
    Such an honest and beautifully written lens. Sharing your story is so helpful to others who may be going through the same thing. Thank you for your openness.
  • EelKat Jun 24, 2009 @ 3:17 am | delete
    Dropping a note to let you know this lens was blessed.

    ~EK
  • qlcoach Jun 11, 2009 @ 9:20 am | delete
    Thank you so much for being so open and honest about your life challenges. Having a small stroke and suffering from depression are very difficult problems. I met you on Squidom. I hope you will visit my new lens about emotional healing. Sincerely; Gary Eby, author and therapist.
  • mysticmama May 31, 2009 @ 6:49 pm | delete
    Wonderful :-)
  • stargazer00 May 18, 2009 @ 11:19 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing your personal story. My father in law used to say that getting older is not for sissies and I have found this to be true. I admire your bravery and I hope you continue to live life to the fullest. None of us really know how much time we have.
  • poddys May 9, 2009 @ 3:41 pm | delete
    Thanks so much for opening yourself up to everyone Carol. It's really good to get to know you better, even if it is to learn about health problems that you have had to come to terms with. The great thing is that by doing this, you find out that you are not alone, so many of us also have our problems in life, and by writing about it, you help to create a support group for yourself.

    This is a really great lens, 5***** well deserved, and a hard lens to put together, but you did an excellent job. I have of course lensrolled it to my Bournemouth lens.

    Looking forward to seeing you in the Giant 100 Club shortly :)
  • JaguarJulie May 9, 2009 @ 7:23 am | delete
    Thank you for having the courage to write this remarkable page -- my grandfather Alexander Nagy had a series of strokes many years ago. That is my only personal knowledge of someone who has had a stroke. You are quite brave. May you live a long and full life so that you can share more of you with us. Again, thank you.
  • LizMac60 May 7, 2009 @ 7:01 pm | delete
    Thanks for writing this and I hope you continue to enjoy your life.
  • Spook May 4, 2009 @ 8:17 am | delete
    I admire your guts. All evidence to the contrary notwithstanding, I believe there is something else.
  • Tiddledeewinks May 2, 2009 @ 9:50 am | delete
    I have severe chronic pain with chest numbness a lot and it worsens when I lay down so sleep is hard to come by (which is why I'm thankful for Squidoo). I am getting short term memory problems, yet the doctors can't pinpoint what is wrong!!! I think I need one of those artery tests maybe, as my arteries seem to be "pinched" feeling and in a numbness. I think of the after life and have faith in following Jesus Christ though and cherish every moment with my family. I love the pic of your dogs on the beach. My pets are part of my family and I wish I could have dogs but can't where I live now.
  • susannaduffy May 1, 2009 @ 5:39 am | delete
    May your calm always stay with you. Here's a blessing for revealing a vulnerable side to us, it's very courageous and I'm sure that I wouldn't be able to face facts as you are. I hope your new place is comfortable and the dogs can settle in.
  • sandyspider Apr 26, 2009 @ 10:38 pm | delete
    This must of been painful to write. I'm sorry about your health and wish you well. I think Squidoo can be good therapy and I'm sure you have found many friends here. Thanks for sharing your story.
  • Nochipra Apr 23, 2009 @ 12:07 pm | delete
    My grandmother also had a mini stroke a couple yrs ago. It really scared all of us. Thanks so much for sharing your story.
  • cjsysreform Apr 23, 2009 @ 11:37 am | delete
    You are so brave and amazing. Thank you for sharing such personal information with us. I am sure it wasn't an easy decision for you to make this lens, and I really admire the guts it took to do so. You never know whose life might be saved as a result of someone coming across this page and getting educated about what to do for stroke victims.

    I will certainly be keeping the info in mind in case my dad has another stroke. He had his first one about six months ago. He wasn't conscious at the time -- it happened while he was in surgery for his heart. The heart-lung machine was what caused the stroke. We didn't know for the first 24 hours afterwards whether or not he would make it. It was just terrifying. He's doing very well now, and I have more respect and admiration for him than ever.
  • Ramkitten Apr 22, 2009 @ 1:54 pm | delete
    I read every word. What can I say but ... wow. Thank you for writing this. I suppose, in a way, each of us could "die at any moment," but it's one thing for it to come as a complete surprise and, I'm sure, quite another to have it lingering in the back of your mind (at least) all the time. You have a great attitude, though, and I'm glad you're here, on Squidoo, sharing your talent and your stories.
  • Jewelsofawe Apr 22, 2009 @ 1:16 pm | delete
    What a story! I am sorry to hear about your health. I had a mini stroke type of episode and your lens has me thinking more about it.
  • drifter0658 Apr 22, 2009 @ 12:17 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing this and know that you have more support than you can fathom. You are strong and human...oh yeah, a real joy to know......Thanks!
  • Rewards4life Apr 22, 2009 @ 11:46 am | delete
    Thank you for being honest with your situation, it is never easy but I hope you have found a positive from teaching others. My Nan had several strokes before she passed away, so this is a close subject. I just wish there was information like this so close to hand when I was dealing with my loss, I'm pleased others will get the chance that I did not. 5* and a hefty pat on the back.
  • spirituality Apr 22, 2009 @ 10:32 am | delete
    I'm glad to hear you're being supported well in this time of need. Touching lens.
  • Frankie Apr 22, 2009 @ 9:39 am | delete
    Carol - thank you for sharing this - I found it very interesting. We all live under the shadow of death - but yours is official. I think you're right and brave to try and make the most of life and live as "normally" as possible.
  • Gandree Apr 22, 2009 @ 8:48 am | delete
    Carol, I'm so sorry you are dealing with this. My Mother-in-Law had to deal with mini strokes so I have some idea of what you have to contend with. Have you considered an organic vegetarian diet? I know it can sound extreme but a lot of people swear by it. Check out http://hacres.com/home/home.asp . It's tough to make the change. I am considering trying it to see if it will help the Rheumatoid Arthritis that is trying to take over my joints.
  • Joan4 Apr 22, 2009 @ 7:21 am | delete
    Thank you for telling your story! Personal stories like yours are to me, the real joy of Squidoo. We learn from each other. As I read, I wondered about myself -- how would I deal with such a diagnosis? I am so glad you found Squidoo !
  • tutor1235 Apr 21, 2009 @ 2:15 pm | delete
    Wonderful Lens-very informative and very moving....I think you did a good thing here.

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Stazjia

This is what happened to me when I had a mini stroke, then got REALLY bad news. more »

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