Stroke Sisters: Stories of Strength and Resilience

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Podcast by Angie Read

Stroke Sisters: Stories of Strength and Resilience

Welcome to Stroke Sisters: Stories of Strength and Resilience, the podcast that celebrates the journeys of women who have faced the unimaginable and come out stronger on the other side. Hosted by Angie Read, a two-time stroke survivor and advocate, this podcast brings you inspiring, real-life stories of women who’ve overcome the challenges of stroke and are reclaiming their lives with confidence, hope, and resilience. Each episode features intimate conversations with stroke survivors, experts, and advocates, offering valuable insights, practical advice, and emotional support for those navigating their recovery. Whether you’re a stroke survivor or someone supporting a loved one, this podcast is a source of empowerment, encouragement, and community. Please tune in and hear how these incredible women are rewriting their stories, finding strength in their vulnerability, and inspiring others to never give up. Join us and become part of a global sisterhood that believes in the power of resilience and the beauty of reclaiming life after a stroke.

Latest episodes

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23 May 2025

A Mother's Fight: Deidra's Road to Recovery

Deidra McLaughlin, a mother of two young boys and special education teacher, faced a life-altering event at 36 when she suffered a stroke on her way back from a funeral. Despite initially attributing her discomfort to a hangover, she found herself in a coma shortly after arriving home. Her recovery journey included battling meningitis and adapting to life with paralysis on her left side. The experience interrupted her dream job and daily life, but with the support of her family and rehabilitation efforts, Deidre has made significant progress, finding strength in her desire to return to teaching and her two young sons.

  • Did you know that 80% of strokes are preventable? Get screened today to uncover hidden risk factors.  Life Line Screening. http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350 

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09 May 2025

Faith, Determination, and Healing: Nikki's Miraculous Recovery

In this episode, Nikki Epperson shares her intense journey of surviving a stroke at the young age of 33. She describes waking up with a severe headache and later realizing she was experiencing a stroke. Despite being paralyzed on her left side, Nikki's faith and determination drive her rehabilitation. Through consistent exercises and lifestyle changes, including improving her diet and quitting alcohol, Nikki has defied doctors' expectations. With unwavering support from her husband, she learns to walk again and advocates for a positive mindset. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of belief.

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06 May 2025

Climbing the Mountain: Michelle's Unyielding Journey Post-Stroke

Michelle Brotohusomo's life was dramatically altered by a stroke at a relatively young age. Initially uncertain of her symptoms, she quickly shifted to action after a friend's urgent recommendation. Her hospital and rehab experience involved an emotionally and physically demanding process of relearning basic skills. Through her perseverance, Michelle returned to her work with newfound insight and determination. Her journey emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and the support of a strong community. Michelle's story is a testament to recovery, illustrating how a major health crisis can lead to personal growth and renewed priorities.

Did you know that 80% of strokes are preventable? Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular disease. http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350

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02 May 2025

From Coma to Confidence: Debbie Mangan's Stroke Recovery Journey

Debbie Mangan recounts her stroke experience, which began unexpectedly while gardening. After being rushed to a hospital across town due to the severity of her condition, Debbie spent weeks in a coma and eventually transitioned from a ventilator to a trach. Her recovery journey was challenging, involving relearning to walk and adjusting to life post-stroke. Despite initial fears and obstacles, Debbie's resolve to walk again was fueled by mindset tips taught by a life coach. Her story highlights the importance of resilience and the support of community studies aiding stroke rehabilitation.

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26 April 2025

From Music to Mending: Cassie's Stroke Journey

Cassie Miller Thornburg, a professional singer, faced a life-altering stroke at age 54 that abruptly halted her successful career. Despite the challenges, Cassie’s faith and determination led her to find new joys in life beyond music. Though she eventually decided to step away from singing, Cassie finds happiness in being a wife and a ‘mom’ to her cat, embracing new roles with grace and celebrating life’s changes with hope.

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23 April 2025

Defying the Odds: Delanie's Stroke Survival Journey

Delanie Stevenson, a former teacher and young mother of two at the time, shares her harrowing experience with an ischemic brain stem stroke at the age of 33. The episode recounts her unexpected symptoms, the urgent hospital trip, and her struggle with the 'locked-in' condition that left her initially unable to move or talk. Delaney also discusses her inspiration to recover, drawn from her sister who had survived a stroke a year prior. This shared family ordeal inadvertently prepared and motivated Delaney, transforming her recovery journey and leading her to pen her experiences in books and articles.

Thank you for listening. If you would like to be a guest on the show, or know someone who might, please email me at angie@strokesisters.com.

Link to Life Line Screening: http://llsa.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2437&aff_id=2350

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