Who is the most qualified expert on surviving and recovering from stroke? The answer is a person who has survived and recovered from a stroke! Texomans who know this reality in powerfully personal ways have joined to share their expertise with each other and with those to whom life after stroke is a new experience.
Stroke is sometimes referred to as a brain attack because it affects the brain in much the same way a heart attack affects the heart. Every stroke is different and is largely dependent upon the area of the brain affected and the length of time that area was without oxygen.
There are two types of strokes. Transient Ischemic Attack, or TIA as it is often called, is when a blood clot clogs an artery for a short period. This is sometimes called a warning stroke. The symptoms are much like a major stroke; however, they last for a shorter period. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel ruptures and bleeds deep in the brain or on the surface of the brain.
The lightning bolt is the universal symbol of stroke. Stroke happens that fast and that unexpectedly. There are lightning strikes in the form of stroke happening around the world at least once per minute. Millions of people have suffered this disability and many of them do not have the benefit of a stroke support group. Stroke survivors and their loved ones in the Texoma area are lucky in that a group is available to give and receive support after the lightening bolt of stroke hits!
The first Tuesday of every month from 10 – 11:30 am and the third Tuesday of each month from 6 – 7:30 pm, a Stroke Support Group, comprised of expert “survivors” gathers at the Reba McEntire Rehabilitation Center at 1200 Reba McEntire Drive in Denison, TX. Stroke survivors, caregivers, relatives, partners and others with a passion for stroke recovery come together to share. Emotional support and exchange of coping skills flow naturally, as the group creates a safe, supportive environment. Education and information sharing happen as speakers visit and participants share their own growing in physical and emotional recovery.
All stroke survivors loved ones and others who have interest in stroke recovery are welcome at the Stroke Support Group. The November gatherings are 10 am on the 4th and 6 pm on the 18th. For more information, please call Dee Rippy at 903-465-1148 or send your questions email to deerippy@sbcglobal.net.
Stroke is the number one cause of adult disability and the third leading cause of death in the US. Although stroke affects people of all ages, genders and races, people over 55, males and African-Americans are at higher risk for stroke. Controllable risk factors include obesity, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease. By seeing a doctor regularly and following their instructions you can control these risk factors.
