In December of 2010, my 12-year old son had a stroke. It was completely unexpected as he was extremely healthy and active. The doctors never found a medical reason for why he had a stroke in the first place. Unfortunately his entire right side was paralyzed and his speech was affected. He spent 3 months in a rehabilitation hospital. Since his release, we have been taking him to outpatient therapy every day. This experiance has been so difficult for him and for us as a family. We try to stay positive and keep his spirits up by letting him know that he will get better. And he really has made an amazing anount of recovery but he still has a long road ahead of him. I feel so bad for him because he's now entering middle school and it's already such an awkward time in a young person's life and now he has to deal with a disablity too. It dosne't seem fair at all. In the beginning I cried every single day and night about what had happened to him and so did he. There is nothing worse as a parent than watching your child suffer. We have started to come to terms with our "new normal" but its been a long hard road. I am looking for other parents that may be in a similar situation?
I am not in a similar situation but i wante dyou to know I read your post. I'm so sorry about what has happened... try to remain positive, it will be good fo ryou and for him... let me know if you ever need anything.
Hi Melissa,
I'm not a parent however I had a major hemorrhagic stroke a few years ago. I had just turned 21 and was totally healthy. To this day the doctors can't explain why or how it happened. I'm the oldest of four kids and my youngest brother only weeks before was taken by ambulance and diagnosed Type 1 diabetic. Needless to say, I completely understand any frustration that your son and/or family may be experiencing. I stumbled across this entry tonight and I know my mom is someone who would love to talk to you about that you are experiencing. She was my rock through my rehabilitation. I went from being totally unable to take care of myself to getting back to the runner and artist I am today and I thank her so much for that! Also, I would be completely happy and honored to talk to you or your son or give you some more ideas with moving forward in the circumstance. Like you said, middle school can already be hard enough but it is always nice to have someone there who understands and supports you! I truly hope to hear back from you soon!
Hi:
Thank you for responding. I would love to hear from you and/or your mom. Prior to this happening, we were like everyone else in that we thought strokes only happen to older people. I had never heard of someone under the age of 50 having a stroke much less children. I’m so happy that you have recovered and are able to run again. How inspiring. Some days I do ask myself if my son will ever be able to do all the physcial things he used to love doing ever again. One of the hardest hurdles for him to overcome has been the impact on his speech. Articulating detailed thoughts can be a challenge for him. Did you experiance any of these affects? How long did it take for you to feel “normal” again?
I’ve included my contact information below:
[email protected]
512-971-2488
Thank you again for your help.