Last post Fri, May 02 2008 8:51 PM by mitskev. 31 replies.
I had a stroke four years ago and have made a good amount of recovery. But I still find that I have problems expressing myself to others. I think what I want to say but my face is blank. It's a part of the brain damage. It's very frustrating. If you could verbalize this to your friend that you understand that he may not be able to say what is on his mind but he will continue to recover, if someone did to me in the beginning, I can't tell you how much it woudl mean. Give him hope.
Tammy
Sorry about your friend. High blood pressure is not curable and he should never have stopped taking his meds. I know this because my high blood pressure was the precursor to my stroke. The damage has already been done. Speaking from actually experiencing a stroke all is not as bad as it seems and the hospital staff needs a good talking too about their negative comments and words. He may not be physically able to respond but how about silently. Can he write ? I haven't regained that ability yet but can sign my name. You can really be most supportive by not being a Gloomy Gus about his prospects. I expect to be rid of the cane and drive again someday. My career as a Yodeler or winning American Idol have been dashed but I was all that good anyway. Slow and gradual exercise , as well as physical therapy help too. My brother mentioned acupuncture however I'm skeptical. Being young bodes well for the recooperative and rehabilation surely. The brain needs lots of time to reconnect - I know. It will happen but he has to want and make it. People say he's too young to have a stroke - not true. Read on - they hapen at any time, age, shape and condition. Cheer up and be that good friend you know you are - just know in your head and heart that it going to take some time - just remain calm, happy but most of all patient. He will come back when it's time - being so young definitely makes the odds more favorable for a mostly complete recovery. Some things just take longer - expect it and don't be surprised when they don't in a timely manner. Don't rush and don't press - all things in moderations really does apply here.
