Words of Wisdom -- “Do not feel guilty or like you’re a burden. Psychological therapy is so helpful and don’t be afraid to ask for and get the help you need. The only way to move is forward”.
Meet John!
by Liv, O.T.S.
John is an avid member of the American Stroke Foundation. His top three favorite parts of the ASF program are community, comradery, and being with others who can empathize with him and vice versa. John says it’s so encouraging to see everyone in the group’s progress and how far they have come and the progress they continue to make. John appreciates how much independence the ASF program facilitates for him along with the mental and emotional health support. John says that ASF has given him an amazing opportunity for social participation, has positively impacted his family dynamic due to the progress he has made here, and gives him something to look forward to.
When John is not at ASF he enjoys reading, watching history documentaries, researching DIY projects, cooking, board games, and is looking forward to riding his motorcycles again in the future. He has an amazing support system at home including his wife of almost 30 years, his daughter Kylie, and son Jake. He also has a phenomenal caregiver, Isaac, and many close friends who continue to support him and check on him.
After having his stroke, John says he now tries to live the moment and enjoys/notices the small things much more than before. He says one of his favorite small pleasures is having coffee on Sunday mornings with his wife on their patio.
John said that after having his stroke, his family came together for him in countless ways and truly learned what love is. John’s biggest take away from life so far is that “Everything is a process and you’re on a path. Just keep moving forward. It’s not the destination, it’s the journey along the way and you’re only beaten when you give up”. His last words of wisdom were for everyone but especially for men in his generation. He said “Do not feel guilty or like you’re a burden. Psychological therapy is so helpful and don’t be afraid to ask for and get the help you need. The only way to move is forward”.
