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Showing posts from May, 2024

Understanding Stroke: Shedding Light on American Stroke Awareness Month

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  May marks a crucial time in the medical calendar - American Stroke Awareness Month. It's a time when communities, healthcare professionals, and organizations come together to shed light on a condition that affects millions worldwide. This month serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of education, prevention, and timely intervention in the fight against strokes. The Impact of Strokes Strokes are a leading cause of long-term disability and mortality globally. In the United States alone, someone experiences a stroke every 40 seconds, with around 795,000 people suffering from a new or recurrent stroke each year. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent individuals and families whose lives are forever changed by the sudden onset of this medical emergency. Understanding Strokes A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is disrupted, either by a blockage (ischemic stroke) or by bleeding into the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The brain cells deprived of o...

Navigating Life's Changes: Welcoming Mom Home

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  Life has an uncanny way of surprising us, doesn’t it? Just when we think we have it all figured out, it throws a curveball, challenging us to adapt, grow, and ultimately, thrive in the face of change. For me, that curveball came in the form of my elderly mother, grappling with Alzheimer's, moving in with my family in San Antonio, Texas , following the passing of my father. Suddenly, our tranquil family dynamics shifted, paving the way for a new chapter filled with both challenges and profound moments of connection. At 89, my mother’s presence has become a central thread in the tapestry of our daily lives. Her journey with Alzheimer's adds an extra layer of complexity, requiring patience, understanding, and unwavering support. It’s a journey fraught with uncertainty, yet punctuated by fleeting moments of clarity and warmth that remind us of the vibrant woman she once was. With two energetic kids and a loving husband by my side, our household has transformed into a bustling hub...