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.

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Latest episodes

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08 September 2025

Healing Through Humor: Tracy's Remarkable Journey

In this episode of Stroke Sisters, Tracy Hazelwood shares her remarkable journey of recovery following a massive stroke at the age of 51. A medical procedure intended to prevent a stroke ironically led to one. Tracy discusses her intense rehab, the emotional toll of losing close family members during this period, and how her humor and supportive network aided in her recovery. She also highlights the importance of community, including her family, friends, and the Stroke Sisters group, in fostering her resilience and helping her find joy even in the face of ongoing challenges.

80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.

Lifeline Screening

Books by Angie Read:

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31:30

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24 August 2025

Strokes on a Plane: Erin McLaughlin Hartney's Incredible Tale

Erin McLaughlin Hartney's life took a dramatic turn when she experienced seven strokes mid-flight at the age of 35. Leaving behind her career as a financial controller, Erin faced numerous challenges, from relearning to speak and walk to finding new purpose. Through determination, therapy, and community engagement, including volunteering and moving to Ireland, she created a life beyond her strokes. Despite the emotional and physical hurdles, Erin's story is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the power of embracing new beginnings, proving that life's setbacks can be transformed into opportunities for personal growth and rediscovery.

80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.

Lifeline Screening

Books by Angie Read:

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40:21

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21 July 2025

Carrieann’s Stroke Story: Reclaiming What Was Stolen

Carrieann Holzworth's story is an extraordinary one, marked by a surprising discovery of multiple strokes at just 39 without any hospital stay. Initially noticing a stutter and difficulty writing, her symptoms led to an MRI revealing numerous strokes. Despite facing comprehension, physical, and spatial difficulties, she not only managed to continue her job at the Federal Railroad Administration but also undertook intensive therapy to regain essential skills. Carrieann's journey is a powerful testament to her resilience, grace, and determination to reclaim her independence and adapt to her new reality.

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28 June 2025

Reach Out! Janice Johnson's Triumph Over Stroke

Janice Johnson, a retired tech industry pioneer and Black woman, shares her incredible story of resilience after surviving a bilateral stroke during the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with paralysis and the inability to speak, Janice’s recovery journey was challenging. Her husband and daughter played crucial roles in her rehabilitation. Janice’s husband, a social worker, secured necessary services to aid her recovery. Her mental toughness, rooted in being born during the civil rights movement, helped her overcome the challenges of recovery.

80% of strokes are preventable. Get screened today for your risks of stroke and/or cardiovascular diseases.

Lifeline Screening

Books by Angie Read:

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40:08

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13 June 2025

Allie Levine Part Two: Dirty Little Secrets

In this podcast episode, Angie and former physical therapist Allie Patton Levine discuss the critical steps involved in preparing for discharge after a stroke. Allie highlights the importance of establishing a strong relationship with your case manager, as they play a pivotal role in aligning patient goals with those of the healthcare facility and insurance companies. She shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the need for effective communication and advocacy to ensure suitable rehabilitation protocols, especially for younger stroke survivors. Allie's story of resilience also led to protocol changes, benefiting future patients in similar circumstances.

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07 June 2025

Becoming Your Own Cheerleader: Allie Levine’s Stroke Journey

In this engaging "Part One" episode, Allie Levine shares her compelling journey from being a physical therapist and cheerleading coach to becoming a stroke survivor and advocate. At the age of 49, Allie's life took an unexpected turn with a stroke following a complicated surgery. She offers a unique perspective, blending her professional background with personal experiences, to support other stroke survivors. Allie emphasizes the emotional and mental challenges of stroke recovery and highlights her advocacy work with the Tennessee Valley American Heart Association, focusing on better support for women navigating post-stroke life.

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