Not Your Dad's Stroke

Book excerpt: Not Your Dad’s Stroke is written by a stroke survivor for stroke survivors and their loved ones. It documents the author’s recovery from a 2012 stroke, and examines the research and treatment advancements over the twenty years since his dad had his stroke. The author also discusses strategies and resources to help make recovery easier. The book includes personal accounts from other stroke survivors, caregivers, and a therapist. Not all the stories have happy endings, but all are informative and inspirational. Most newly diagnosed stroke patients are in fear of the unknown. In the author’s case, his first thought was of his dad's stroke, and how it had been the start of his dad’s decline. However, as the author’s treatment and recovery began, the first thing he realized was that things had changed for the better, with faster diagnoses and improved treatments. From the beginning, he had a better prognosis, with early discussions on recovery and preventing the next stroke. Everyone knows someone that has had a stroke. It can happen to anyone at any age. No two strokes are the same, as no two recoveries are the same. The bottom line is that recovery is hard work, survivors have to keep at it, and at some point, learn to accept the new version of themselves. This book will be an informative resource and inspiration for newly diagnosed stroke patients, anyone who has suffered a stroke, and for the loved ones and caregivers of stroke survivors. The manuscript was built around common questions about stroke identified though conversations with stroke survivors, caregivers, and peer support workers.