"Two questions in particular remain with me. Someone in the audience referred to the imagery in the video composition that shows me crawling along a floor. It represented a time when I couldn’t walk because of my stroke and so had to crawl about my home on my hands and knees instead.
The two questions she asked were along the lines of:
1. Do I try to disguise my disability when I'm in the company of others?
2. How are other people suppose to cope or respond when they see me crawling around (as stroke is such an unfamiliar and broad condition to many people)?"
1. Do I try to disguise my disability when I'm in the company of others?
2. How are other people suppose to cope or respond when they see me crawling around (as stroke is such an unfamiliar and broad condition to many people)?"
- Mark Ware,
an artist, independent producer and photographer, who suffered a stroke in 1996 at the age of 39 (pictured below, crawling post stroke), has created an intriguing stroke diary expressed through a theatre production in U.K.
Ware's creative journey led to the production of 'The Dog That Barked Like A Bird' which too is based around a diary he kept on simply surviving post the acquired brain injury, focusing on short stories from his ordeal, including losing temperature sensation down his body's RHS.
Keeping a diary during Stroke Rehabilitation is something I too did
(for lapses in memory retention + to serve as a reflection tool + also to serve as evidence that I was alive with concrete tracking of friends visiting *who would write in the notebook as well* and doctors writing messages about what was happening to my mind and operations scheduled. Despite my brain's bi-damage, I could still read the doctor's messy handwriting - Miss Laird for life! The diary also kept track of how many chocolate bars were consumed each day/hour - short term memory at its best - not that it altered my excessive consumption, but it's the thought that counts!)
Keeping a diary during Stroke Rehabilitation is something I too did
(for lapses in memory retention + to serve as a reflection tool + also to serve as evidence that I was alive with concrete tracking of friends visiting *who would write in the notebook as well* and doctors writing messages about what was happening to my mind and operations scheduled. Despite my brain's bi-damage, I could still read the doctor's messy handwriting - Miss Laird for life! The diary also kept track of how many chocolate bars were consumed each day/hour - short term memory at its best - not that it altered my excessive consumption, but it's the thought that counts!)
Below:
Get to know your brain -
it might even make you smarter
The mind's hemispheres are said to be first acknowledged by the wise ancient Egyptian people who identified that despite the (brain's) hemispheres looking almost identical in structure, they operate in entirely different ways and are associated with very different activities (the Egyptian people may have noticed this when they'd leave the brain intact before mummifying a deceased soul - despite popular belief, taking the brain out through the nose with a hook is not the actual case). You may already have realised this yourself with your own thinking and abilities as well as your brain's particular strengths and weaknesses. The interaction between the mind's hemispheres (known as specialisation or lateralisation) is an intriguing concept that has surely been made obvious by the brain damage I and other stroke survivors acquired (I'm incredibly 'textbook' when it comes to the two brain injuries' effects - a bit of a shame)! The clever ole Egyptian people identified that the left hemisphere controls the right side of the body and the right hemisphere controls the left side of the body. This we know to be true to this day, but it is a little bit more complicated, sophisticated and intriguing than such when examining a damaged brain (as well as a brain without damage, of course!), with the range of fascinating brain damage effects, its progress and how one compensates as evidence of just how extraordinary our minds (and the minds of our animal mates) are!
Upon researching the mind, I have discovered that the brain stem (Medulla Oblongata) - despite looking insignificant in comparison to the mind's mighty big lobes above it - controls involuntary functions like the all-important heartbeat, breathing and blood pressure. It also controls our eye movement, talking, hearing, chewing, swallowing, visceral functions (digestion, toilet time), reflexes and muscle movement.
This is the last place you'd 'pick' to be hit by stroke.
Upon researching the mind, I have discovered that the brain stem (Medulla Oblongata) - despite looking insignificant in comparison to the mind's mighty big lobes above it - controls involuntary functions like the all-important heartbeat, breathing and blood pressure. It also controls our eye movement, talking, hearing, chewing, swallowing, visceral functions (digestion, toilet time), reflexes and muscle movement.
This is the last place you'd 'pick' to be hit by stroke.
The biggest part of your brain is the cerebral cortex, which is the 1/2 cm thick top outer layer, folded into unique little ridges referred to as 'grey matter' (see below diagram of our big mate, CC). Its grey colour (hence the ridges' name) is due to billions of nerve cells that are connected to bundles of white, insulated fibres known as 'white matter' (yeah, consistency in the 'matter' names allocated!).
This section itself takes up 4/5 (80%) of our whole brain!
In knowing this fact, it may not surprise you to learn that the cerebral cortex has a direct correlation with how advanced a species is (obviously, human beings are 'grey matter enthusiasts'!).
This section itself takes up 4/5 (80%) of our whole brain!
In knowing this fact, it may not surprise you to learn that the cerebral cortex has a direct correlation with how advanced a species is (obviously, human beings are 'grey matter enthusiasts'!).
The cerebral cortex is the section of the mind where your thoughts take place, you understand speech and you come up with things to say (and blogs to write!). It's also the spot where you process information from your eyes, ears and other sensory organs (so despite being restricted with initially over 50% loss of vision *Homonymous Hemianopia* due to a considerable amount of damage to the left hemisphere's occipital lobe, demonstrated by constantly bumping into objects/strangers/walls and some loss of RHS sensation and strength *Hemiparesis* post Kitty Stroke #1, my damaged brain was fortunately still able to receive messages when the body's RHS was touched at least, as well as identify and comprehend the limited vision it did see - unlike onion-eating George Costanza with his perfectly intact brain. Magical mind at it again!).
- The brain's 'seahorse' that is in charge of the formation of memories, spatial navigation & controlling emotions.
Imagine what it would be like to instantly have your unique personality completely changed in every aspect due to a stroke in your temporal lobe. Strokes and their aftermath can be truly catastrophic - even if you can't physically identify a person's struggles post brain attack, take it from this multi-layered onion.
Can you identify the Special K brain damage?
Kitty Cerebral Infarction - Left Hemisphere
Take One
Occipital Lobe
(bottom left
*'X' in middle is not dead brain)
(bottom left
*'X' in middle is not dead brain)
July 2012
Kitty Cerebral Infarction - Right Hemisphere
Take Two
(to the right, small white seahorse-like shape)
October 2012
'White Matter' in stroke MRI images =
= dead brain chunks of Miss Laird,
no chance of resurrection
Because the hippocampus is insignificant in size (although it is the boss of motivation + formation of memories + spatial navigation + controlling and connecting emotions - highly vital human attributes, trust this brain-damaged soul!), many (literal) 'mind maps' neglect this poor, ole (cute) buddy (my very own white dead brain 'seahorse' in MRI, above, plus check out this informative webpage that explains the importance of exercise, in connection with our brain's hippocampus & what it must be like to no longer have the 'mind's seahorse'). Never fear, below is a limbic system diagram where hippocampus resides (above MRI image shows the hippocampus as a white dead mass in Special K's right hemisphere as of late 2012).
Don't leave us, hippo-c!
Let's say you connect the loud sounds/screams of a children's playground to your childhood, which your brain then may associate with feelings of happiness, freedom, innocence and vitality (and not, say, make you distraught that there must be a fire up ahead due to children screaming all around you, an analogy that instantly gives this Seinfeld fanatic a vision of despicable/invigorating George Costanza in particular!), where you then know how to act in (/react to) such a situation, despite a bunch of kids sounding like they are in terror as they incessantly scream whilst doing crazy stunts without any body 'padding'(and loudly! - should you intervene to restore social conduct?! Your seahorse buddy, vital thinker, hippocampus, will have the answer)!
Plus, hippo-c will help to retain short term memory such as where the public toilets are and the names of the people you meet, the particular vibes you felt from them, what your key card's pin is to pay for a little snack, where exactly your car's parked and simply why you are there, plus many more short-term memory pieces of information - they're everywhere and they're vital! Matters of short-term memory are incredibly important to your existence and day-to-day duties).
"Experience: That most brutal of teachers. But you learn, my God do you learn."
- scholar & acclaimed novelist, C.S. Lewis
Given I now have brain damage (yet you should know, I wholeheartedly still feel like myself with most of my skills, capabilities, intelligence, character and mannerisms fortunately still hanging around *official neuro testing has confirmed this* - it's the attitudes of others that has made the distinct difference since strokes), some people do then treat with little respect, consideration, patience and empathy, where I then question my own being, as well as my updated life's purpose + future, the intentions and sincerity of some people and why they do certain acts that cause much angst and concern to a 20-something person forced to go through this challenging ordeal. Through analysis, reflection and discussion (with fellow stroke survivors, my dear support network, relative strangers, medical hot shots *not all in the medical field are helpful in stroke rehabilitation. Some are negative, ignorant and impatient - fellow stroke survivors can avidly vouch for such!*), I have realised that my strokes haven't just affected me - they affect every person in a stroke survivor's inner and outer circles, as well as every person they come into contact with, from my sister and mother, to an acquaintance I meet for the first time at a dinner party who has to (and offers to) be my guide to and from the restroom (and remind hippo-c-lacking Special K where we are seated just 10 metres around the corner a few minutes later when we return - minor issue in comparison to other hygiene habits that can be affected by stroke/brain damage, but it still is a constant challenge nonetheless) and the bus driver during a school excursion (who initially wondered why I seemed a little disorientated, repeating the same questions they had already answered just minutes earlier). Most people (relative strangers and acquaintances included) are pretty good sports when it comes to assisting a bi-brain-damaged Special K & some even thrive with their role + also off my vibes (thank you!) which means I feel quite chuffed about most human beings. Understandably, I wish it didn't have to be this Special K way and although there may be a few people thinking I could have prevented my strokes (as you can prevent some by actively reducing your individual stroke risk! Use National Stroke Association's Stroke Risk Scorecard, below, to identify your individual stroke risk and use a range of stroke smart strategies suggested throughout this *funny/clever/informative* blog to help/guide), the reliable batch of doctors, nurses and therapists - both in U.K. and Australia - have confirmed my particular strokes were unavoidable given the rare + undetected autoimmune disease that caused my mind to explode in 2012 (location of stroke striking, early detection and swift, appropriate medical treatment were the variables).Do show gratitude for your mind's range of advanced and sophisticated capabilities today for you never know when they could be temporarily/permanently taken away from you.
Rule of thumb for any brain damage is that the physical effects will be on the opposite side of the infarction and if the damage is at the back of the brain, in the occipital lobe (ala Kitty Stroke 1), a stroke sufferer will immediately lose a portion of their eyesight (this is why some people notice flickering in their vision when experiencing a stroke. Kind of like a flickering/damaged light in their brain - be on it like a car bonnet, stroke smarties! This also can happen in the months/years post a brain attack when sight, that is particularly processed in the occipital lobe is regained through neuroplasticity which encourages new neural pathways around brain damage giving hope to ABI & TBI sufferers everywhere).
Right Brain's Characteristics
General characteristic traits associated with our
right brain's hemisphere include -
*Random
*Intuitive
*Holistic
*Synthesising
*Subjective
*Whimsical, hyper, disorganised and
led by one's feelings
Left Brain's Characteristics
General characteristic traits associated with our
left brain hemisphere include -
left brain hemisphere include -
*Logical
*Sequential
*Rational
*Analytical
*Objective
Which hemisphere do you tend to favour?
Left or right?
Generalised Right Brain and Left Brain Differences -
*The right brain is intuitive, meaning it is led by feelings,
while the left brain is analytical, meaning it is led by a logical
approach towards problems
*The right brain tends to make lateral connection from the derived
*The right brain tends to make lateral connection from the derived
information,
whereas the left brain generally makes logical deductions
from the derived information
*The right brain focuses on visual, focusing on music and pattern,
while the left brain focuses on verbal, focusing on words,
numbers and symbols
*The right brain tends to struggle with mathematical formulae
and words to express themselves,
while the left brain tends to be quite effective at memorising
mathematical formulae and also expressing them
*In people with right brain domination, organisational
skills can be very poor,
skills can be very poor,
on the other hand people with left brain domination
tend to be highly organised
tend to be highly organised
*Right brain dominated souls generally don't give attention to minute details,
yet left brain dominated souls tend to focus on each
and every minute detail and step taken
*When given a task of assembling a particular thing, right brain people generally start working promptly without reading the instructions,
while left brain people tend to carefully go through
the instructions and then start working
the instructions and then start working
*When people with right brain dominance communicate,
they like to make many gestures with their hands,
contrary to which, left brain dominated people hardly
use gestures when communicating
*Our right brain is designed to listen to 'how' something is being said, whereas the left brain is designed to listen to 'what' is being said
*Although the right brain seems not to rationalise things, it does
have the tendency to question the rules,
on the other hand left brain dominated people are said to never question
rules, instead they readily accept them
*People with dominant right brain tend to have a difficulty in prioritising things
which makes them execute things in hurry, at the last moment
(this can show to be both a negative and a positive!),
which makes them execute things in hurry, at the last moment
(this can show to be both a negative and a positive!),
whereas people with dominant left brain are said to be well versed
with planning the future, which means they tend to be
prepared well in advance
Above: Our brain's left and right hemispheres are fascinating sorts, but
As you have aged, you may have noticed that
it isn't necessarily the youthful brain that is the winner in mind tasks,
nor is it the wise ole brain -
Below:
How does your face fair?
Our sophisticated brains are said to take just 33 milliseconds to decide whether someone is to be trusted!
'Mind' boggling (hehe!).
RF - One Reliable Broad-Chinned Man
We tend to put more faith in individuals with comparatively broader chins, wider mouths with upward pointing corners, bigger eyes and eyebrows that are higher on the face.
Furthermore, National Geographic's Brain Games (do watch this clever and highly-addictive television show and also visit their interactive website to feed your mind! Quite tantalising food for thought) claim we are inclined to trust children more than adults as simply seeing the little ones releases oxytocin (<< the 'cuddle' hormone aww!) in the brain which leads to increased empathy, trust and desire to nurture those around us.
Yes!
A fascinating 2012 study published in Brain World Magazine also found that as you age, your brain increases the number of connections related to emotions, so that older people are better at solving problems in personal relationships than younger souls (this indeed makes absolute sense - think of your relationships with people as well as your choice of people in such relationships that you choose to be in your life both tend to improve as you age).
Although the particular strokes I suffered were labelled as 'unavoidable' (given the rare *unique* autoimmune disease vacating - without anyone's knowledge - in the Special K brain!) and I have acquiesced the situation and its range of effects that hit at just 26 years old, there are stroke-smart strategies we all can adopt to help with reducing our individual stroke risk (which will surely increase our chance of meeting the above future top bloke with his trusting face). Now a stroke-smart enthusiast ('tis a thing!), I have actively researched further ways (previous blog entries have also offered stroke-smart suggestions from those in the know) to improve your mind and help reduce your chances of experiencing a brain attack (whilst I've accepted - & perhaps even relished with gaining a smorgasbord of stroke smarts - what has happened to my control board *mind* & it being unavoidable in my particular Special K case, I would not recommend this long, debilitating journey as a two-time stroke survivor that has been filled with vast loss, hardship, disappointment and fear). Do join in actively being stroke smart and I may just tell you some witty Kitty jokes!
Would you like to be stroke smart (yes, yes you would!)?
Here are more of Miss Laird's mind findings -
Chronically over-aroused nervous systems can and do burnout, causing such conditions as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and strokes, among others (Exhibit A - Miss Laird) - burning both ends of the candle can and does cause strokes. If sufficient rest (<<7 - 8 hours every night/day) along with mental and physical therapies are done regularly, a range of stroke-prevention investigations have shown a reverse in age-related brain shrinkage (it wasn't in the pool like George Costanza!), increased production of nerve-protecting compounds, improved development and survival of neurons, greater blood flow to the brain and altering the way damaging proteins reside in the mind thus helping reduce the risk of memory impairment, in particular, as well as coordinate the nervous and immune systems (where the particular strokes I suffered as an otherwise 26 years old spring chicken - with low individual stroke risk prior - stem from!), allow the body and mind to heal, encourage the growth of new brain tissue and restore itself in the process (to its best potential).
Simply sleep under your work desk like George Costanza did
- just do it for your brain!
Otherwise findings have shown that tired people are more likely to make poor decisions,
take more risks, as well as slow their reaction time.
- just do it for your brain!
Otherwise findings have shown that tired people are more likely to make poor decisions,
take more risks, as well as slow their reaction time.
2. Physical & Mental Therapy
Neurologists also recommend anyone to challenge their mind with proactive cognitive training (Special K Suggestions listed below) in order to make the most out of it and living your life. Furthermore, latest findings have reflected that the age of your brain may have less of an influence on its structure than what you do with it (I've been saying this for years! Even before strokes, as Miss Laird!) - this is an incredibly uplifting notion for all of us and offered immense hope for the future as a brain-damaged Special K in those early months/years when my brain was at the capabilities of a dependent child. The medical team behind my particular stroke rehabilitation - both in UK and Australia - have encouraged persistently (<<a Special K renowned trait that fortunately has stuck around despite damage to the mind) attacking therapy through directly focusing on the areas of the mind that were affected by the strokes and certain aspects of my progress has impressed medical sorts all over the world. Yep, even Nurse Gilly and my British doc who 'followed' us Down Under. When I do go back to London (given I'm a holder of a U.K. passport, it's a given), one of my ports of call will be to see Gilly! Not only to give him some mighty fierce love, affection and treats (payback after all the treats/puddings while in hospital!), but also to show him the progress the plastic brain has since made despite being bi-damaged and so close to dying in late 2012.
Neurologists also recommend anyone to challenge their mind with proactive cognitive training (Special K Suggestions listed below) in order to make the most out of it and living your life. Furthermore, latest findings have reflected that the age of your brain may have less of an influence on its structure than what you do with it (I've been saying this for years! Even before strokes, as Miss Laird!) - this is an incredibly uplifting notion for all of us and offered immense hope for the future as a brain-damaged Special K in those early months/years when my brain was at the capabilities of a dependent child. The medical team behind my particular stroke rehabilitation - both in UK and Australia - have encouraged persistently (<<a Special K renowned trait that fortunately has stuck around despite damage to the mind) attacking therapy through directly focusing on the areas of the mind that were affected by the strokes and certain aspects of my progress has impressed medical sorts all over the world. Yep, even Nurse Gilly and my British doc who 'followed' us Down Under. When I do go back to London (given I'm a holder of a U.K. passport, it's a given), one of my ports of call will be to see Gilly! Not only to give him some mighty fierce love, affection and treats (payback after all the treats/puddings while in hospital!), but also to show him the progress the plastic brain has since made despite being bi-damaged and so close to dying in late 2012.
If you are a stroke survivor who is - in the aftermath of acquiring a brain injury - experiencing muscle weakness as well as balance challenges (common effects of stroke that are all due to the brain's damage, not your body's literal physical limitations! Mind blowing and definitely mind over matter), those in the know insist physical therapy is important - straight up! - to ensure you can encourage optimal neuron rewiring so that the (otherwise) simple task of using a knife and fork (or chopsticks! I 'forgot' how to use these and had to relearn - a *somewhat* supportive mate commented that I was never a guru with them before the strokes. Phew!) can again be regained for your sacred independence (and no buddies laughing at you - instead, laughing with you!).
Exercise makes physical and mental sense!
As mentioned in previous Strokes Get The Blokes blog entries with particular attention given to yoga, regular cardiovascular exercise actually can (and does!) boost your brainpower (you always can boost it!) as it generates new neural pathways (damaged or not!), specifically in the hippocampus (Kitty Stroke 2 location - brain's epicentre for formation of memories, spatial navigation and emotions) which in turn, encourages your mind to be more engaging, enthused and efficient (boom!). Perhaps you feel your mind just isn't wanting to learn as proficiently as it did yesteryear or you have noticed that it's not remembering like it used to despite you regularly wanting to remember passwords/events/anniversaries/work commitments. This may be due to a lack of aerobic and mental exercise, in particular, brainwave training which coordinates an over-aroused nervous system, allowing the body and mind to heal and restore after experiencing an influx of physical and mental stress, agitation, anxiety, anger and impulsiveness.
Benefits to physical activity, in particular, yoga (i.e.: the above Five Tibetan Rites which claim to reduce your body's age with their particular charkas aka vortexes of energy!), are said to include -
*Detoxification
*Balance of charkas (vortexes of energy)
*Reverse the aging process
*Sleep soundly
*Enhance memory
*Regulate, promote and improve emotional and mental health
*Relief from joint pain and arthritis
*Improved strength and coordination
Benefits to physical activity, in particular, yoga (i.e.: the above Five Tibetan Rites which claim to reduce your body's age with their particular charkas aka vortexes of energy!), are said to include -
*Detoxification
*Balance of charkas (vortexes of energy)
*Reverse the aging process
*Sleep soundly
*Enhance memory
*Regulate, promote and improve emotional and mental health
*Relief from joint pain and arthritis
*Improved strength and coordination
YOGA ENERGY'S DAILY RHYTHM ROUTINE
(DINACHARYA)
(DINACHARYA)
The Tibetan Five Rites are five simple kriyas (below - movements through two or more poses) that can be completed in less than 20 minutes and will help you to live the long healthy, vigorous life of a Tibetan monk.
To further encourage enhancement of that sacred mind of yours, you can incorporate a daily balance routine known as Dinacharya into your lifestyle.
Do ensure you 'evacuate' (as the routine *elaborated in link* recommends) straight after you wake up too!
YOGA ENERGY'S DAILY Rhythm ROUTINE
(DINACHARYA)
Do ensure you 'evacuate' (as the routine *elaborated in link* recommends) straight after you wake up too!
YOGA ENERGY'S DAILY Rhythm ROUTINE
(DINACHARYA)
Let's do this!
*'Liver flush' must be code for having a glass of stroke-smart red wine.
*'Liver flush' must be code for having a glass of stroke-smart red wine.
Electrodes (attached to the skull = close to the brains!) measure the
electrical activity of a Tibetan monk's fascinating brain patterns.
Ca-ute!
Ca-ute!
After 2012's strokes, a lovely lady (/a medical professional) at London's St George's Hospital, also stuck these little devices (aka monk massage, above) onto my skull to measure my particular brain's electrical waves ('EEG' - check out <these> particularly intriguing EEG results of 43 ischemic stroke *in the middle cerebral artery* survivors over a period of 6 months) and it was one of the more relaxing tests one may encounter post suffering a stroke, for it felt rather soothing (especially the 'deep skull massage aka cleaning skull of the flat metal discs known as 'electrodes' in the aftermath) - as the routine (elaborated in link) recommends. I felt totally in my element with the freeeee head massage. Perhaps I'm a monk *very* deep inside! Am I selling stroke rehab to you?! Of course!
EEG our minds whenever you want, please medics.
Kitty in Berlin's Mitte District
Actively trying to reduce stroke risk with some brain-nurturing exercise
a.k.a.: 'Stroke rehab'
Berliner Mauer
Berlin, Germany
Regular Physical 'Therapy'
(Broad range of 'activities' to encourage that heart and mind racing towards a more fulfilling and lengthy life).
Getting physical helps to boost the heart and also the mind,
according to a thorough 2010 German study.
according to a thorough 2010 German study.
Keep up the stroke-smart bike rides -
you'll also assist in feeding the brain with some exercise for the heart!
Boris Biking to help reduce our stroke risk, yes!
Stroke SMART!
Kensington Gardens
London, UK
Exercise makes physical and mental sense!
In 2010, a German study published found that subjects who swam, rode bikes (German visual shown above) or even worked in the garden a few times a week (for example) were only half as likely to show cognitive impairment as they aged, compared to those who rarely worked up a sweat. The good news?! It doesn't take a lot of exercise to benefit your brain - three x 20-minute sessions a week should do it (eaaasy!). This exercise-for-the-mind mantra has proven to influence your brain's hippocampus, where yoga is one workout, in particular (that previous blog entries have explained its scientific neural benefits in great detail, as well as firsthand accounts from stroke survivors who regularly exercised their minds to *actively try* avoid further brain attacks by helping to reduce their individual stroke risk), aimed at exercising your mind through breathing, poses and meditation, which in turn helps to improve your strength, flexibility, endurance and mind power (i.e.: being in the moment, determination, controlling of emotions and optimism - we all could have more mind power!), as it reduces episodes of an irregular heartbeat which is technically known as atrial fibrillation, an abnormality of the heart that makes someone two to seven times more likely to suffer a stroke than others - one extremely confronting statistic (by the knowledgeable National Stroke Foundation) right there.
Trying to improve your own mind?
The age of your brain has less of an influence on its structure than what you do with it.
Exercise - physically and mentally style!
Pursuits that require intense mental focus, like learning a new language, have proven to switch on nucleus basalis - the control mechanism for neuroplasticity, which as previous blog entries of Stroke Gets The Blokes have told you, promotes splendid axonal sprouting (hurrah!) - conscious and deliberate effort (no drugs!) at brain rewiring and thus, restructure and improvement of the damaged mind to re-obtain functions and abilities it had prior to damage (YESSSS!). Rewiring was encouraged during my days (2 years!) at rehab therapies (the struggle for stroke survivors doesn't end because they survived, those who suffer from life-changing brain damage experience various degrees and focuses in rehabilitation) for my particular damaged brain's deficits where I felt like Benjamin Button when he's an old man (in his mind) trapped in a young person's body, going over concepts, abilities and complex knowledge & reasoning you once were a superstar at (and still well aware you were such, prior to the sudden brain explosion where everyone treats you like a little child even though you know you're not). It was not only was done to identify areas of concern (that aren't always obvious for even experienced medical therapists and doctors to acknowledge until after extensive testing is executed - take note of the complexity of brain damage to ensure you keep an open mind with stroke survivors), but also to encourage neuroplasticity that demonstrates brain progress is most fierce in the initial years post brain damage. These varied mental tasks were like a strenuous workout for my damaged mind (I'd go home and have to sleep after such an intense mental marathon!), where it was regularly stimulated using a range of strategies, which promotes neuroplasticity and any progress in the short-term-memory retention.
Work, work, work your brainy!
Progress is the prize.
Fortunately for you, the mind enthusiast, Miss Laird, is here with suggestions of a range of simple brain training tasks you can do regularly all by yourself (and/or with a mate/many mates/strangers), such as -
- Cultivate ambidexterity by brushing your teeth, using the computer's mouse and/or combing your hair with your non-dominant hand (kinda fun, riiiiight?! Brain power!)
- Draw with both hands simultaneously (kids love to do this - they're not just hat racks!)
- Switch hands for your knife and fork at meal times
- Block senses to focus on others. For example, eat blindfolded (here is a list of some flattering darkly-lit restaurants. Best place for a date!), watch a TV show without any sound (your interpretations may surprise yourself!) and feel for items in your bag instead of looking - could you even challenge yourself with certain coins to pay for a chocolate bar and the specific key you need for the front door or doing your hair with your eyes shut? Pictionary Mania encourages us to block senses, as well as communicate in unique ways to stimulate our 'noggins'
- Play Chess, Sudoku, Simon Says (fun while learning!), online brain games (AARP Brain Games, Mind Games, Games For The Brain, Play With Your Mind) - yep, even some video games to improve your working memory. Your working memory is affected by the chemical, dopamine, and with cognitive training, you can increase this vital brain juice! To think I used to giggle at the people playing boring ole chess; I now commend such brain boosting souls!
- Learn a foreign language (I've indeed known adults to embrace such purely to stimulate their minds. Do it!) - and/or even sign language! I especially like the idea of the latter!
- Spell long words, backwards (perhaps with a bunch of friends, racing each other on a Saturday night - yessss! Almost as fun as Pictionary - you may just lose as many friends too!)
- Write - a story, poem or even a blog (yep, the latter is a sensational idea!)
- List your problems and put them in a safe place (i.e.: in your bedroom drawer's bottom draw) - look at them in a few months'/years' time. Reflect - are they still present? Do you regard them as less of an issue now? How did you handle it? How could it be handled better next time? What problems are now considered humorous? What does that tell you about your current problems? Such an intriguing idea!
- Debate about topical events in a casual setting (Friday night drinks sound ideal for a debate with good vibes!) - do your research too (but don't fiiiight with your mates!), learn from others' perspective and reflect
- Visualise - your future, a familiar photograph, an object you just saw, how to get home from work, a place you are fond of - the world is your visual oyster! Analyse your visualisations and the reality. What do you learn from this?
- Turn pictures in your phone upside down (flip 180 degrees) - regularly look at them and try to work out what you are looking at (with great detail - even better!)
- Invent your own words (..and we once thought that was just our immaturity shining!) - use them and encourage others to do the same. Yolo is rather 2012 - time to be creative! Children like to do this and they are the masters of brain training with their sponge-like plastic minds IMO
- Engage in the arts, including sculpting, drawing, acting (think 'Thank God You're Here' improv! Pictionary Mania has always been a favourite 'mind meets the arts' game), dancing - you don't have to be a pro - learn a popular culture dance routine (Thriller is always a crowd favourite *when you're all under the influence and not judging*, but do try being the little dancer in Sia's Elastic Heart ASAP - fully decked out in costume and with a buddy to help out in Sia's absence) - to truly challenge your mind. Hey, guess what? Even juggling works that brain of yours (yessss!)
- Go without all forms of technology for a day - can you handle an entire week? It'll mean you have to use a real, physical map (for example) to find your way to your friend's party (that they invited you to with a cute snail mail card!), wake yourself up at a required time (howwwww?!) and resist posting on social media a photo of yourself lost en route where you had to wait for a bus (at the wrong stop) for more than 10 minutes where you didn't get any Grindr/Tinder 'matches' during such a stressful time to 'stroke' your ego!
- Find and use a new route to a familiar location - 'un-Australian' to do so, but do opt for the longer less-familiar way to your mate's place, instead of the 'shortcut' - your mind will thank you with sneaky, warm, internal hugs...Orrrrr, you could always create a new (albeit confusing, yet highly sophisticated) shortcut (very 'Australian')
Simple strategies that will help boost your brain power!
DO try to integrate them into your everyday life.
TRY starting with just one suggestion
regularly and then work your way up so that you are constantly utilising your mind to its full potential.
These stroke-smart strategies can quite also be integrated with others.
Given this particular life journey, we're now all about prevention and progress in the Land of Kitty!
STIMULATE that mind and keep it fit and agile with regular mental and physical challenges.
Join us in feeding the mind.
Scientific proof with these feasible suggestions by smarty pants at Harvard Uni - use it or lose it!
In simple Kitty terms, neuroplasticity (any mind can benefit from this!) needs a supportive, calm environment, so doing it regularly by yourself or with a mate in a familiar, comfortable setting will ultimately promote the rewiring of your mind to reach its best potential, thus, improving your individual thinking and abilities - brain damaged or otherwise. The therapy I received biweekly at both occupational and speech therapy rehabilitation was often confronting, as well as stressful and studies have shown that the (and I'm about to get scientific here!) geometric length of apical dendrites of pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus (your brain's 'seahorse' memory/spatial navigation/emotions centre - where my second stroke's damage is!) shorten when stressed, which then cause the neurons to shrink, reducing the number of synapses and thus, neural connections, which means progress is not going to happen. Being positive and proactive by getting back out 'there' as Miss Laird was what I needed to do - for my brain's sake and that's precisely what I did just six months after Stroke 2 - in early 2013 (when I was still requiring full-time care - although after Stroke 1, I insisted on going back to full-time work after just 6 weeks of my school's Summer Holidays, technically not one sick day after that stroke). It was fortunate that my drive, passion and enthusiasm for purpose in this world was still intact despite being so utterly brain damaged at 26 was still evident, as I am well aware that lacking motivation this can be a challenging effect of a brain injury (please nurture this cruel effect of stroke/brain damage - be a pump, not a drain to stroke survivors! Remember - they can and do happen to the person who is active, clever and young. Whilst I do struggle at times with my mind's recently-acquired inabilities and confronting restrictions (I haven't cried the way I have over my severe + constant challenges + losses - direct & indirect - during the past 3 years since I was a child getting sent to their bedroom for 'time out' reflection! Think about the last time you had one of those Ben-Stiller-being-rejected in 'There's Something About Mary' outbursts - deep, deep pain, right there!), I also thank the noggin for what it is still capable of - that I am still funny, that I am still intelligent, beating others in trivia contests (they must be rather embarrassed about their perfectly intact minds but they shouldn't be as that part of my mind has not been affected by stroke) and teaching students (at the supportive school I volunteer at) the exact concepts and strategies I did prior to the strokes and that I still understand the world and my role in it (this is where personal hygiene and emotions would also play their role, both concerning & heartbreaking effects of stroke). My brain has been damaged, yes, I've had to accept such, but the mind has also been enhanced with occupational + speech and language therapy (official and my own done at home with my supportive Mummy who is a registered nurse specialising in mental health, in particular + technology and out in the 'real world') and I am - and always will be - a massive advocate for always improving the mind you have, which I think is not only going to shine a beautiful rainbow over my dark, stormy brain-damaged world, but also bring sunshine into the worlds of many, especially those little flowers of tomorrow.
Start today, stroke smarties!
Let's get that mighty heart pumping glorious, fresh oxygen to our brains today!
Let's get that mighty heart pumping glorious, fresh oxygen to our brains today!
Be Active like us stroke smartie pants getting some exercise
Alexanderplatz
Berlin, Germany
3. You are what you eat. Eat stroke-smart grub. Drink stroke-smart brews.
We have previously shed some light on stroke-reducing meals. For example,
We have previously shed some light on stroke-reducing meals. For example,
a Mediterranean diet (plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish, poultry and olive oil = delicious and easy!) is a must for the mind and heart, said to reduce one's risk of disease by a drastic 30% (according to academic institutions across Spain performing their specific research studies on such - wowzas!) and after more of my own active stroke smart research, I have found a range of yummy treats for you to gobble down on for your brain's sake - stroke survivor or otherwise!
These mind meals include a few doses of fatty fish every week such as deep-water fish i.e.: salmon and/or tuna, beans (baked beans = UK food staple, stroke smarties!), skinless poultry, fruit and vegetables (as mentioned in earlier blog entries - tomatoes, legumes, breads, low-fat yoghurt, even a little bit of walnuts with cheese (not just beneficial for their smorgasbord of cheesy jokes - they have high quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids *just like old mate, Mr Salmon!*, a range of vitamins and minerals including calcium, zinc, phosphorus, vitamins K2, A and D *like the stroke smart sun rays!*)! - according to a new meta-analysis in the journal, Neurology, as well as mackerel, sardines, herring and/or trout, that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids as they help to encourage around a 20% (or more!) reduction in stroke risk (as it helps to lower triglycerides...a...what?! It's a type of fat in your blood used as a back-up energy system, like your own 'camel hump' - although too much is not good! We never thought I'd ever say that about humps!) and also reduces heart disease risk (eat those stroke-smart salmon steaks stat!), olive oil (Mediterranean Diet is truly here to stay!) and a glass of red wine (but do not overdo the simple social drink for it can increase blood pressure and cause heart failure which would then have a negative effect on your mind!).
Every single person should be able to list stroke smart foods as easily as we can list beers and their respective clever advertising campaigns.
**Please Note - Australian researchers were involved in the investigation, so we know it just has to be 100% reliable.
Being proactive is far better than being reactive (take this pro's word!), so please do adopt stroke smarts yourself by adapting your diet with stroke-smart suggestions for your mind!
Strokes occur at any age. They do not discriminate and knowledge is power. Let's make the stroke smarts clear so that we help reduce our individual stroke risk (& people stop remarking about my age or how I directly caused my strokes).
Salmon + Tomato Salsa Side
(....& a big glass of stroke smart red wine,
then a cuppa brain-healthy green tea with some superfood berries &
yoghurt on the side for dessert) =
Stroke Smart Supper
4. Avoid Smoking
Previous Strokes Get The Blokes blog entries have explained the distinct link between smoking and having strokes with an alarming double (in some instances, even quadruple!) as likely to suffer a stroke if you smoke statistic, truly confirming the urgency for avoiding/quitting a once-was-suave nasty addiction. As I'm sure you know, the chemicals released when smoking cigarettes is transferred from your lungs into your bloodstream, but you may not realise that these chemicals (such as nicotine and carbon monoxide) are ultimately changing and damaging cells all around your body, accelerating the process of atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries = blood cannot travel through effectively = strokes).
These chemicals also affect your cholesterol (type of fat that is carried around your body in particles called lipoproteins, which allow fats to move through the water inside and outside cells) levels by reducing the level of 'good' cholesterol. Furthermore, according to USA's Stroke Association the carbon monoxide inhaled when smoking, affects your production of a blood cell called platelet, which increases your blood's tendency to form clots and the 'stickiness' of your blood, which can cause strokes. If you feel quitting nicotine is just not feasible, do what many 21st Century stroke smart sorts are doing and invest in healthier alternatives to manage your nicotine addiction. Do it for your precious mind! It'll thank you for it in the long run.
5. Be Aware Of Hidden Stroke Risk Factors And Stroke Prevention
We all need to be proactive in identifying our individual stroke risk factors, in order to prevent the mind attacks (/repeat mind attacks) - especially the sneaky, hidden conditions (i.e.: Atrial Fibrillation) before a stroke strikes (/repeat strokes strike). Stroke prevention makes sense - use suggestions throughout this blog if you like, but also do your own proper research!
Stroke risk factors are cumulative. Controlling merely one has shown to substantially lower your individual chance of having a stroke.
You can be stroke aware masters by knowing these hidden stroke risk factors -
- Hypercoagulable States aka clotting disorders - Women who have had more than one miscarriage may be at higher risk for blood clots, which can then increase their chance of stroke. Other signs of a possible clotting disorder can include previous history of clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis - hence why I 'got' to wear those suave *not suave* compression stockings as a precaution on the long flight back Down Under from London once released from hospital, over 6 weeks post Stroke 2 in December 2012) and livedo reticularis, a mottled purplish discolouration of the skin
- Atrial Fibrillation (irregular heartbeat caused by a disturbance to your heart's electrical system which can cause clots that may travel up to the brain, causing a stroke) - this condition was indeed tested after my particular strokes - a cute little heart monitor worn (and easily concealed = no worries for this Kitty) for a week whilst back at school (UK's NHS provided a prepaid, self-addressed envelope to send the heart monitor back to them at week's end in too - they seriously are an incredibly supportive bunch!) post Stroke #1 in September 2012 (and such was tested again in November 2012 while in hospital after Stroke #2 struck - to be absolutely certain it wasn't the cause of my strokes. End results = atrial fibrillation was definitely not the cause of my particular brain attacks). Be aware of your heart's beating skills today
- Birth Control Pills - Women take another blow with this one in particular. They could be up to twice as likely to experience a stroke than compared with those who don't use low-oestrogen birth control pills and the risk may increase if other risk factors are present. There are alternatives - medical pros do suggest choosing contraception wisely, also for your mind's sake!
- Migraines - If someone suffers from migraines with aura (visual disturbances such as flashing dots and/or blind spots, hot/cold flushes + slurred speech = very similar symptoms of FAST stroke symptoms), it has been found that they can be up to TEN times more likely to suffer a stroke, depending on other risk factors. According to the reputable Migraine Research Foundation, women suffer migraines approximately three times more often than men
- Hormone Replacement Therapy - Women who take hormone replacement therapy may have a slightly increased stroke risk
- Autoimmune Diseases - The risk of stroke can be increased by autoimmune diseases such as diabetes and lupus (Exhibit A - Kitty Kat - an autoimmune disease is said to be the cause of the two mighty fierce strokes whilst in my 20s). Be aware of this sneaky one creeping up on you - especially if you are young and have an otherwise low risk of stroke
- Patent Foramen Ovale - While an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation) can and does cause strokes, another condition of the heart also travels its way up to the mind, causing extreme chaos and destruction. Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is the technical term for a small “hole” in the heart between the left and right atrium (its upper chambers). We are all born with this little opening in our beating machine which generally heals itself shortly after birth. However, 10-20% of our hearts' PFOs never seal and we may be none the wiser until something as catastrophic as stroke strikes. If a PFO is present, surgery is required to close the hole for a person's best outcomes and to reduce their individual stroke risk. According to reputable National Stroke Foundation simply having this condition can make someone 25% more likely to suffer a stroke. If you experience a stroke, your doctors may be unsure of what caused such (and they need to identify why in order to help you out - stop the strokes, limit the effects, keep you alive, improve your life!) so on top of a range of mind tests (the list is mighty long!), you may also receive an ultrasound image (loveheart photo, boom!) of your heart and/or a 'physical examination' aka chest massage to check if there is a PFO present! It is unfortunate, but people who have this small hole in their heart (PFO) will most likely not be aware of such until after a medical emergency such as a stroke (or another event that makes a medical sort ponder 'PFO') strikes and necessary medical tests are performed (an aware doctor who experienced dizzy spells identified his own PFO! Education is the key). In the event of being diagnosed with PFO, medicines such as anti-platelets and anti-coagulants are delegated daily (if not taken = increase risk of stroke) to control blood clotting (if the doctors don't seal the heart's flap, they can control the amount of blood clots formed and reduce the number of clots that could possibly travel to the brain by thinning the blood). Another type of treatment for PFO is to physically get in 'there' and close the hole with open-heart surgery, which will be dependent on the risk and complications - obviously younger souls tend to fare better
- History Of Preeclampsia/Eclampsia - According to the ever trustworthy Heart Foundation, pregnant women with a history of preeclampsia/eclampsia (6 - 10% of women who give birth) - which is a dangerous spike in blood pressure that occurs late in pregnancy - have an increased risk of future hypertension and stroke - one to 30 years after delivery
- Hypertension - Women with chronic primary or secondary hypertension (<<fancy word for high blood pressure) can be affected by age, family history, being overweight, diabetes, lack of exercise, excessive alcohol consumption (perhaps have your stroke-smart-ethanol-protective-agent glass of red a day if your blood pressure is at a standard level like yours truly!), smoking, a diet high in salt (seriously take note of that one, dear salt lovers! It can sneak up on you without even realising) or previous pregnancy-related hypertension all have an increased stroke risk. Pros suggest to consider your health and alter your ways if necessary, stroke smarties
- Chronically over-aroused nervous systems can and do burnout, causing such conditions as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and strokes, among others (Exhibit A - 26-year-old Miss Laird's strokes have been labelled as a 'nervous system flare-up' by a rare autoimmune disease). If mental and physical therapies (suggestions throughout this blog - I do suggest asking actual medical experts though) are done regularly, a range of stroke-prevention investigations have proven a reverse in age-related brain shrinkage (it wasn't in the pool like George Costanza!), increased production of nerve-protecting compounds, improved development and survival of neurons, greater blood flow to the brain and altering the way damaging proteins reside in the mind, thus helping reduce the risk of memory impairment, as well as coordinate the sacred nervous and immune systems (both systems where my particular strokes as the 26-year-old spring chicken - with low individual stroke risk prior - stem from), allow the body and mind to heal, encourage the growth of new brain tissue and restore itself in the process (to its best potential). In conclusion - the experts reckon you ought to mindfully look after your nervous system with both mental and physical therapy (and also vital rest!)
6. Maintain Social Circles - Talk Therapy
Through various research, as well as support groups and medical professionals imparting their wisdom, I have discovered it indeed is a reality for some stroke survivors and their loved ones to suffer a wide range of intense emotions, such as fear, anger, worry, self-loathing and grief and we (Klubbers + Kitty Kat) surely have over the past 2+ years. As awful as it sounds, we have been mourning my 'former self' and its abilities, in particular, independence, freedom, purpose, general progression and successes + the struggles, limitations and confrontations experienced as a young two-time stroke survivor. If necessary, a psychologist or mental health counsellor can help to provide strategies for coping with these concerning emotions, as well as give appropriate medicine. A therapist can also watch for signs of depression, which frequently strikes people in the aftermath of a stroke (a considerable one-in-four stroke survivors experience depression in the wake of a brain attack, in fact - be aware and nurture, not judge and avoid. It isn't their direct fault. A valuable online resource, Black Dog, helps outsiders make sense of depression). Whilst some of my mates have been supportive and actively listened to my struggles, offering sound, appropriate responses as best they can (this has shown to be extremely difficult for some - in my life and other stroke survivors' lives too - as it is a alien concept to some who fail to relate despite a common misassumption that they can initially - close to a third of strokes happen to those who have yet to retire and for those who do survive such life-changing brain attacks, life can be pretty grim and uncontrollably lacking - even if they are young #primarycauseofadultdisability - so stroke survivor support and awareness needs to improve - compassion, consideration, consistency, patience and humour are my key tips for being a quality stroke supporter! Try to relate to the stroke survivor, whilst also not dismissing their experience as something you too have had to deal with - even if you too experienced a stroke - as there are many variables to each person's rehabilitation), there have been some who have judged a sensitive Special K whilst at my lowest, neglected and failed to gain even a glimpse of perspective when I simply needed their support and guidance and they also struggled to grasp the dire health situation (that medics have stated my strokes were not caused due to my direct actions and were simply unavoidable) and how brain damage - with its broad range of severe losses and deficits - has vastly affected my youthful self (+ family and inner circle of mighty fine mates). This has resulted in intense anxiety (that is reducing, yahoooo!! - my recently-acquired advice is to get rid of those 'vacuums' who critique, neglect and avoid - straight up!), but occupational + speech & language therapy (with medical professionals + family and friends in a nurturing setting + family/friends who are competent professionals!) and improvements in my damaged brain's abilities (namely in the case of relationships, the return of awareness and knowing my ultimate self-worth, as well as the ability to grasp subjective situations) have ensured I 'talk it out' and gain reassuring perspective.
"Post-stroke depression (PSD) is considered to be one of the most prevalent affective symptoms after stroke and occurs in at least 1/4 of stroke survivors"
Rising above the abandonment, ignorance and judgement with an open mind towards stroke rehabilitation, positive supporters and the almighty future offers clarity & objective perspective, shifting the focus onto those magical, authentic souls who still support and show genuine encouragement in your brain and being's progress. Furthermore, my own proactive approach to therapy meant we were more able to grasp clarity on effective strategies to help regain happiness and purpose in our (Klubbers too!) lives (i.e.: stroke smart strategies as mentioned above and in previous entries include - brain enhancing & transforming yoga, breathing exercises *which you can also do using a range of apps on your smart phone in this spectacular 21st Century*, diet choices including a few cups of coffee and tea daily *too easy!* and a Mediterranean vibing, inflammation fighting *my strokes were said to be caused by inflammation, in particular*, antioxidant enriched guavas, apricots, bananas, tomatoes - a Mediterranean Diet focus, deep-water fish *Vitamin D-soaked salmon, trout & herring = 20% reduction in stroke risk, according to the wise sorts at American Academy of Neurology!* and dark chocolate *naturally! Unfortunately, this chocolate study was apparently only done with men eeep no harm adopting such measures as a woman too), as well as clarity of life's priorities (rebirth?! I like the sounds of that! Special K got it for free, too!).
Despite two brain injuries with severe ramifications - that are still ever so present, over two years' post any further brain attacks (cheers blood thinners, sleep and support for calming the brain's barmy-army blood vessels) - I am well aware that a keen sense of humour is fortunately still present, making buddies laugh (perhaps even more so!) and simply being able to effectively talk (progress report, patient Klubbers - 'I may have already said this/have I said that already?' as a nervous precaution cue is used considerably less these days as Special K! Progress, yes!) to them about their lives (welcome and clever deflection - highly recommend in those early raw stages of stroke rehab) as well as decent chats about what I and my family are constantly going through (where they offer their warmth, humour and support, not judgement nor analysis. Non-invasive open-minded typical chats are highly recommended for all concerned! Let's all get familiar). Indeed, I've had conversations with family and friends about the concept of (supposed) imminent death knocking on my door, acknowledging the long-term disabilities and vast loss in various aspects of life (professionally, physically and personally) and the uphill, long-winded road to rehab, any advice from the knowledgeable doctors, nurses and therapists involved in my rehab (outsiders who randomly intervene do tend to cause bother - if you're not involved with a specific stroke survivor's rehab, best refrain from offering your 'two cents' unless it is invited. I/other stroke survivors understand the ego needs some 'stroking', but it's not going to get it here).
'Experience is a brutal teacher, but you learn. My god, do you learn?!'
Irish Novelist and Hertfordshire (Kitty Wright-side family roots!) resident, C.S. Lewis
Talk Therapy - The Special K Way
CHITTY CHAT!
Brisbane, Australia
January 2015
Thank YOU to the truly exceptional buddies who now regularly read neuro literature (and send the same pieces my way!), research the mind via credible online websites, actively follow Strokes Get The Blokes brain blog and the TEDx trail and became certified *by myself* neurologists/surgeons/occupational therapists/speech & language therapists/comedians.
Despite a range of brain bullets, there are major stroke effects (aphasia, in particular) I have thankfully managed to dodge in their extreme form (let's focus on the positives!). Occasionally - 2+ years on - there are still instances in my communication where nouns cannot be found - this is known as anomic aphasia. Examples of Kitty's anomic aphasia in those initial months post Stroke 2 (late 2012) include writing in a text, 'laugh with sound' (when I was desperately searching my mind for a simple 'LOL'), to my younger sister (who promptly teased those that use LOL) and 'run in a fast manner' to a friend when all I wanted to say was 'sprint'. It can be frustrating, but in comparison of other stroke survivors, mine is no biggie.
Despite a range of brain bullets, there are major stroke effects (aphasia, in particular) I have thankfully managed to dodge in their extreme form (let's focus on the positives!). Occasionally - 2+ years on - there are still instances in my communication where nouns cannot be found - this is known as anomic aphasia. Examples of Kitty's anomic aphasia in those initial months post Stroke 2 (late 2012) include writing in a text, 'laugh with sound' (when I was desperately searching my mind for a simple 'LOL'), to my younger sister (who promptly teased those that use LOL) and 'run in a fast manner' to a friend when all I wanted to say was 'sprint'. It can be frustrating, but in comparison of other stroke survivors, mine is no biggie.
Brain is getting there + friends & family find it a little entertaining =
Welcome back, happiness and fat chats; see you never, aphasia!
Having their support, humour (it takes fellow funny people to appreciate funny after all!), chocolate treats and even photos of a healthy life have been just as important to my mind and integral in the rehab process as all those necessary blood thinners, 'fat-face' steroids, blood-sugar daily blood tests and litres (I never exaggerate!) of blood test samples (to confirm I was otherwise - apart from strokes and the disease which caused them - healthy and also, not pregnant! Buddies especially liked teasing the latter - especially when I couldn't answer the doctors' simple questions on my recent dating history given memory deficit = best-date Kate!), days spent sleeping (the damaged mind craves it!) and sophisticated, yet at times extremely frightening, surgeries to find the cause/reduce chance of further strokes.
Mates have continually encouraged a keen sense of humour by focusing on the funny aspect (the sore groin by a little camera being put in an artery there; constantly peeing in little medical cups and getting them to give such to the nurses for a reason I do not retain; forgetting friends' important significant others; teasing my memory deficit in a light, positive manner i.e.: forgetting which bed was mine in the hospital ward and needing mates/holiday boyfriends/relative strangers to literally hold my hand as we wander around searching for a nearby toilet).
If ever you have someone experiencing a serious & extensive health crisis,
my number one piece of advice would be to force yourself into their world
(don't avoid/judge/suggest)
- talk to them about what's going on in both your lives (not just the stroke survivor's) and actively research specific terms/surgeries/diagnosis they/medical professionals used in discussions with you, surgeries they had to endure so that you know every facet of what they are actually going through (and if you are in the medical field, this is the time to step up to the plate with your wisdom by nurturing and encouraging, as well as gaining a broader understanding of strokes and brain damage as it is the most complex organ we have so do no expect to grasp the brain injury just because you work in some area of medicine. Not all in my - and many other young stroke survivors I am in contact with - have grasped the strokes and their cruel effects, which is incredibly concerning. Let's change it!) and what to expect in the aftermath for a 20-something stroke survivor (here's hoping this blog also helps educate carers & supporters of future survivors), when one may become a challenging, depressed, stagnate outpatient for a prolonged amount of time.
Considering what a stroke survivor has gone through - in not just when the stroke/s strike (from out of nowhere! Bam! You are effectively a shadow of your former self *not necessarily forever!* and you've just stared death in the face *considered 'most likely when it comes to stroke* with a confusing and non-linear rehab road) - but also the location and size of brain infarction/loss of quality of life/brain damage effects etc in the weeks/months/years' aftermath, being one who is consistently supportive of the survivor through awareness, education, empathy and patience whilst also STILL being your usual self that they previously appreciated all while with an open mind will inevitably assist the stroke survivor on their journey.
My particular genuine mates (you good sorts!) have not only ensured to be consistent and up-to-date with all things stroke, some have also delved into the lasting effects (severely & uncontrollably unwell while in your 20s, losing your profession, your independence, your freedom, your travel and your youth - instant examples of secondary stroke effects) and had/have open minds during the duration of my and my family's struggles, tending not to judge, undermine and/or abandon when the going gets tough, at times offering the realisation that they too feel what I feel.
You ought to embrace and adopt the above simple stroke smart choices in your life now, for not only are they delicious, invigorating and healthy, but your most sacred and sophisticated organ can be enhanced and so can your glorious (one-chance-at-it) life.
Hospital Lyfe With #1 PA
November 2012
St George's Hospital, London
November 2012
St George's Hospital, London
This lad (above - during the acquired brain injury vacay at hospital when mates had to ensure they left work early to arrive at hospital during strict visiting hours - eagerly offering colourful anecdote WITH hand gestures *effort = A+*, fully aware I wouldn't be able to remember whatever they had told me within a few seconds/minutes' time. Humbled!) paid all the bills/rent/holiday payments/Happy Meals in the initial 6 weeks whilst 'hanging out' at London's St George's Hospital when I 'suddenly' couldn't remember my two-year-old Internet banking details (thanks for taking one for the team there, PB...and brainy hehe!), nor who I needed to pay something to and why (far too sophisticated thinking in those early days of a brain-damaged, hippocampus-lacking Kitty! Be grateful for your sophisticated mind!). Despite not having much going into the short term memory bank and a constant uncertainty about my future during 6 weeks in hospital (/+over 2 years in rehab at home), I'd still have a constant mix of visitors flowing/gliding/fist-pumping their way into the Neuro Ward every day (with smiles as wide as Australia and bags full of Happy Meals, that day's newspaper to deflect the paranoia I was dead *Cotard's syndrome*, new/cleaned underwear/PJs annnnd medicinal chocolate!) and I truly valued them then and even more so now.
Hot tip for other stroke survivor supporters.
Hot tip for other stroke survivor supporters.
"Recovery from stroke is dependent on repetitive and demanding practise (by the owner of the damaged nervous system - the stroke survivor) in the immediate weeks, months and years post acquiring brain damage. If done correctly, repetitive and demanding practise drives (brain rewiring and rerouting around damaged neurons) robustly enough to be evident in increased quality of movement (and the quality of other areas afflicted by brain damage)."
Just like Peggy Shaw's mind stance (who had her particular strokes in January 2011), rather than continue to mourn what 'disappeared into the dark holes left behind' by stroke, we (stroke survivors and supporters) ought to celebrate the fact that our brains are able to fill in the blank spaces with new images and insights - an intriguing process she refers to as Green Screening (love it!).
According to Australia's Brain Foundation, of the estimated 40 000 Australians (alone) that have strokes annually, approximately just 28 000 stroke sufferers survive survive the initial year and of these survivors, 50% (!!!) are left with some form of disability - 14 000 people every single year in our small nation of Australia alone (and much of this is down to a) time *...it takes for appropriate medical intervention* and b) luck *...of stroke location in brain*)
According to Australia's Brain Foundation, of the estimated 40 000 Australians (alone) that have strokes annually, approximately just 28 000 stroke sufferers survive survive the initial year and of these survivors, 50% (!!!) are left with some form of disability - 14 000 people every single year in our small nation of Australia alone (and much of this is down to a) time *...it takes for appropriate medical intervention* and b) luck *...of stroke location in brain*)
- celebrating what is left of our minds' capabilities is integral in our quality of lives post stroke/s striking.
Shaw encourages us to challenge our minds' inabilities with swift rehabilitation to generate brain rewiring and rerouting around damaged and/or dead neurons which, in turn, generates neuroplasticity and general progress in one's self and abilities (keep in mind - this is not always a simple mindset to acquire when you've suffered significant brain damage and its range of drastic, inevitable losses). Furthermore, in early 2013, innovative stroke survivor, Shaw, created (and presented) a workshop in Glasgow also titled 'Green Screening' which showcased the power of imagination in the face of extreme and debilitating circumstance together with issues of memory.
One thought-provoking and intriguing woman spreading the stroke smart awareness.
Shaw encourages us to challenge our minds' inabilities with swift rehabilitation to generate brain rewiring and rerouting around damaged and/or dead neurons which, in turn, generates neuroplasticity and general progress in one's self and abilities (keep in mind - this is not always a simple mindset to acquire when you've suffered significant brain damage and its range of drastic, inevitable losses). Furthermore, in early 2013, innovative stroke survivor, Shaw, created (and presented) a workshop in Glasgow also titled 'Green Screening' which showcased the power of imagination in the face of extreme and debilitating circumstance together with issues of memory.
One thought-provoking and intriguing woman spreading the stroke smart awareness.
What do you think (do write me an e-love letter!)?
Be stroke smart by being proactively involved (pretty please) - for all our brains' sakes! YES!
Maybe you'll also get the blokes...
Maybe you'll also get the blokes...
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