Two years ago Nicky Bruno had a stroke, as a young adult working and coaching in collegiate athletics in the USA, this was absolutely devastating. Here Nicky shares her story and encourages us all to take the initiative in preventing a stroke.
Where were you when you had your stroke? - I had my
stroke at my home at the age of 30.
Could you access hospital? - I
was in the vicinity of two hospitals (within 30 minutes) of my home. One
was a Primary Stroke Center and one was a Comprehensive Stroke
Center.
What expectations did you have for your treatment,
rehabilitation and recovery? - I was diagnosed with a spontaneous vertebral artery dissection, which is a tear that formed in the artery of my
neck, that produced a clot which disrupted the flow of blood to my brain. This
led to my cerebellar stroke. Following my
diagnosis, I expected that there would be more information known about my
specific condition and that there would be a set plan for recovery already in
place.
What was your experience of treatment and rehabilitation? - Since
my condition is rare, I had to research and visit a young stroke
specialist to help me devise a rehabilitation plan. The stroke affected
my cerebellum and left me unable to walk, balance, or read. Entering a
rehabilitation and nursing facility and then finding an outpatient physical
therapy clinic that could help create innovative vestibular exercises was
crucial to my recovery.
What has helped you in your recovery? - Directly following my stroke, I
dedicated myself to learning as much as I possibly could about my condition and
focused relentlessly on my rehabilitation. Having been an athlete all of my
life and a collegiate coach at the time of my stroke, I transferred my
focus to retraining my brain. Currently, I have slowly regained my
balance and the ability to not only walk on my own but jog again. With time,
dedication and practice, I was also able to manage my visual symptoms enough to
be able to type, read, and drive. Each day I continue to work to find ways to
modify my daily life to fit my new normal.
What have been/are your fears? - I would have to say my biggest fear was/is sustaining
another stroke since mine was spontaneous.
How did your family and friends feel and respond?
- Following my stroke, I
was unable to work or care for myself. Without the help and support of my
family and their tireless pursuit to get me the best possible care, I would not
be where I am today!
Do you have a message for our World Stroke Campaign this year?
I firmly believe that it is equally important to
be your own advocate when it comes to your health if you are able. This begins
with taking the initiative to employ prevention strategies,
knowing your individual risk factors, and identifying the various signs and symptoms of a stroke!
While stroke is typically thought of as something that affects only older individuals, this experience has opened my eyes to the fact that young stroke is more common than we think. I am passionate about advocating for young stroke, and I wanted to reach out in the hope that I can help others!
