241. Stroke Awareness Month: Differences between Female and Male Symptoms, Advocacy, and Resources

The month of May holds special importance for me, as it is Stroke Awareness Month – a cause that has touched my life profoundly. My husband, Mark, had his first of four strokes on Christmas Day 2022, a moment that changed everything overnight and set me on a mission: to educate and advocate so others might avoid a similar path or, at the very least, navigate it with more clarity.

Stroke Symptoms in Women

Though both men and women can experience these classic stroke symptoms, women may also show signs often overlooked: confusion, hiccups, shortness of breath, seizures, and changes in behavior. These subtle cues can be misdiagnosed, presenting a unique challenge, especially for younger women who might not fit the assumed profile of a stroke victim.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 – Introduction to stroke symptoms, including lesser-known signs in women.
• 00:01:30 – Personal story about Mark’s first stroke and the inspiration for advocacy.
• 00:03:00 – Explanation of the BFAST acronym and the urgency of calling 911.
• 00:06:00 – Why women have worse outcomes from strokes and challenges they face.
• 00:10:00 – Fighting for the right stroke rehab care and the importance of advocacy.

The Unseen Struggle and Advocacy

The statistics are sobering: women often have worse stroke outcomes, and many face these challenges alone. Whether it's due to living alone or receiving less aggressive treatment, the deck can seem stacked against recovery. Throughout Mark’s strokes, my knowledge and contacts ensured he received the right care—a reality not everyone is equipped to navigate.

Connecting with others on this journey brings me solace and purpose. Writing "Surrounded by Love: One Family's Journey Through Stroke Recovery" was a way to share our experiences and offer a resource to those facing what often feels like an insurmountable struggle. It’s not just our story; it's a beacon for others who might feel lost in the chaos of caregiving and advocating for a loved one.

Moreover, living in an area like Dallas afforded us exceptional medical resources, which many do not have. This disparity is why I'm committed to standing as a guide, sharing insights and strategies to empower caregivers to become strong advocates for their loved ones.

Caregiving: A Role of Love and Determination

Caregiving is no small feat—it requires being a powerful, unwavering advocate. I’ve faced challenges convincing healthcare professionals of the necessity for specific treatments, knowing systemic misunderstandings could hinder Mark’s recovery. Not everyone has the knowledge or the support system to tackle these issues, underscoring the need for advocacy education.

Strokes are a personal and communal fight. Each conversation I have, every person who reaches out to connect over shared stories of struggle or need for advice, is a reminder that this journey is impactful. My mission is clear: educate to prevent and fight for the best care when necessary.

To those who share this path, my heart is with you.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Get my new book, 'Surrounded by Love: One's Family Journey Through Stroke Recovery': https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/book

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