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Stroke Resources for Patients, Survivors, and Caregivers

When Someone You Love Has a Stroke: A Book for Kids is a comforting, easy-to-understand guide written by a stroke nurse who works closely with patients, families, and stroke support groups. Using simple language, it helps children understand what a stroke is, how it can change someone they love, and what recovery may look like. The book reassures kids it’s not their fault, encourages questions, and offers ways to help and cope with big feelings. With colorful illustrations, activities, and coloring pages, it blends education with emotional support, making it an essential resource for families, teachers, and healthcare providers helping children through a loved one’s stroke journey.

On December 10, 1996, Jill Bolte Taylor, a thirty-seven- year-old Harvard-trained brain scientist experienced a massive stroke in the left hemisphere of her brain. As she observed her mind deteriorate to the point that she could not walk, talk, read, write, or recall any of her life-all within four hours-Taylor alternated between the euphoria of the intuitive and kinesthetic right brain, in which she felt a sense of complete well-being and peace, and the logical, sequential left brain, which recognized she was having a stroke and enabled her to seek help before she was completely lost. It would take her eight years to fully recover.For Taylor, her stroke was a blessing and a revelation. It taught her that by "stepping to the right" of our left brains, we can uncover feelings of well-being that are often sidelined by "brain chatter." Reaching wide audiences through her talk at the Technology, Entertainment, Design (TED) conference and her appearance on Oprah's online Soul Series, Taylor provides a valuable recovery guide for those touched by brain injury and an inspiring testimony that inner peace is accessible to anyon

A stroke can happen suddenly and change lives in an instant. Whether you are a stroke survivor, a family member, or a caregiver, having clear and reliable information can help you feel more prepared and supported. This page is designed to provide trusted, easy-to-understand resources to help you recognize stroke symptoms, understand treatment and recovery, and navigate life after stroke.

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What Is a Stroke?

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Without blood and oxygen, brain cells can be damaged very quickly. Stroke requires immediate medical care.

Types of stroke:

  • Ischemic stroke: A blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain

  • Hemorrhagic stroke: A blood vessel in the brain breaks and causes bleeding​

 

Know the Signs of Stroke: BE FAST

The American Stroke Association encourages everyone to remember BE FAST:

  • B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination

  • E – Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes

  • F – Face: Facial drooping or uneven smile

  • A – Arms: Arm weakness or numbness

  • S – Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking

  • T – Time: Time to call 911 immediately

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If you notice any of these signs, call 911 right away. Do not drive yourself or wait to see if symptoms go away.

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What Happens in the Hospital?

At the hospital, the stroke care team works quickly to:

  • Check the brain using imaging tests

  • Find out what type of stroke is happening

  • Start treatment as soon as possible

Some patients may receive medicine or procedures to restore blood flow. Others may need close monitoring in a specialized stroke unit or Neuro ICU

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Life After Stroke: Recovery and Rehabilitation

Stroke recovery is different for every person. Some people recover quickly, while others need ongoing therapy.

Rehabilitation may include:

  • Physical therapy to improve strength and movement

  • Occupational therapy to help with daily activities

  • Speech therapy to help with speech, thinking, and swallowing

Rehabilitation can happen in the hospital, in outpatient clinics, or at home.

 

Medications and Follow-Up Care

Many stroke survivors take medications to help prevent another stroke. These medications may help control blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood clots.

It is important to:

  • Take medications exactly as prescribed

  • Attend follow-up appointments

  • Ask healthcare providers questions when something is unclear

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Emotions and Thinking Changes After Stroke

After a stroke, some people experience:

  • Tiredness or low energy

  • Memory or thinking problems

  • Feelings of sadness, worry, or frustration

These changes are common. Help is available through healthcare providers, counselors, and support programs

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Support for Caregivers

Caregivers play an important role in recovery. Caregiving can be stressful, and support is important.

Caregivers should:

  • Ask for help when needed

  • Take care of their own health

  • Use community and support services

Support groups and education can help caregivers feel more confident and supported.

 

You Are Not Alone

Stroke affects individuals, families, and communities. With the right care, education, and support, many people continue to live full and meaningful lives after stroke.

If you think someone is having a stroke, call 911 immediately.

Manhattan, New York, NY, USA

 

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©2018 JKL

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