So, I finally figured it was time, after nearly 80 episodes, to answer our magic wand question!

Mike will be taking part in advisory board meetings for the American Heart Association, sharing his valuable care provider lived experience and advocacy perspectives.  For our listeners attending ISC2025, please introduce yourself to Mike!

On this first episode of 2025, I provide a quick update to why I haven’t been behind the microphone for a bit on the show,  and also cover my own ‘magic wand’ answer to our somewhat famous question we’ve asked every guest on our show.

I also reveal the origin story behind the ‘Magic Wand ‘ question, how it’s tied to research initiated while at the International Stroke Conference (ISC), my current book project (Closure After Stroke), and what all the knowledge gained from these answers reveals about changes needed to the stroke care pathway.

Here are some of the common themes around changes needed in stroke care:

Enhanced Public Education and Awareness
Streamlined Emergency Response Systems
Comprehensive Post-Stroke Rehabilitation
Equitable Access to Stroke Care
Changes to coding and treating for the way stroke is ‘recognized’
Advancements in Research and Technology
Patient and Care Partner Access and Voice


Also I share why ‘doing better’ will require a mindset shift at annual events like the International Stroke Conference to start to think about stroke survivors ‘as the customer and not the product‘.

Reminder to All WordPress Subscribers!

I am moving my mailing list and newsletter updates over to Substack for a more engaging user experience and to pull in all podcasts and news updates to one place.

Join me there, or look for my next email to confirm the move and be sure you are on the list!

This got me thinking about just exactly what test would be a preferred ‘cognitive test’ that might be a fair way of alleviating fears to Americans the current president still has the mental fitness to lead our country for another four years if re-elected.   

Is this even possible or a fair method to decide one’s potential to perform at the highest level to make critical calculated decisions a leader needs to execute daily?

A quick search reveals there are multiple clinical tests for cognitive fitness that can assess various aspects of cognitive functioning, including memory, attention, language, executive function, and visuospatial abilities.

If you are a stroke survivor reading this post you may already be familiar with one or several of these tests but read to the end where I include special comments on considering the stroke survivor’s perspective regarding cognitive function after stroke.

Here are some commonly used tests:

1. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE): A widely used screening tool that assesses cognitive function through tasks involving arithmetic, memory, and orientation.

2. Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)*: A more detailed screening tool than the MMSE, covering areas like visuospatial abilities, naming, memory, attention, language, abstraction, delayed recall, and orientation.

*This is the test Trump reportedly took back in 2018  according to his White House doctor at the time. Trump said he “aced” it. 

3. Clock Drawing Test: Evaluates visuospatial and executive function by having the patient draw a clock showing a specific time.

4. Trail Making Test (TMT): Measures attention, processing speed, and cognitive flexibility. It involves connecting numbered and lettered circles in a specific sequence.

5. Digit Span (part of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale): Assesses attention and working memory by having patients repeat sequences of numbers forwards and backwards.

6. Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test: Tests visuospatial constructional ability and visual memory through drawing and recall tasks.

7. Verbal Fluency Tests: Assess language and executive function by asking patients to generate words starting with a specific letter or belonging to a category within a limited time.

8. Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB): A computerized set of cognitive tasks used for a comprehensive assessment of various cognitive domains.

9. Neuropsychological Test Battery (e.g., the Halstead-Reitan Battery): A series of standardized tests covering different cognitive functions, often used for more detailed evaluation.

10. Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ): Assesses the ability to perform daily activities, providing insight into the impact of cognitive impairment on everyday life.

These tests are typically administered by healthcare professionals, such as neuropsychologists, neurologists, or geriatricians, to diagnose cognitive impairments and track changes over time.

A Physical Therapists View on Cognitive Fitness

As a practicing physical therapist I believe there are even more effective measurement that could paint a more robust picture of cognitive fitness and overall health. For example, walking tests of mobility paired with cognitive fitness are assessments that evaluate both physical and cognitive functions, often used to detect early signs of mobility and cognitive decline or other neurological issues.

A dual task walking test and the timed up and go (TUG) with cognitive task are examples of measures I often use to gauge functional mobility and ‘on the go’ cognition with clients.

I’ll save this deep dive into these tests as well as how the use of grip strength may be functional biomarker of overall fitness, health and longevity for my next article and as well as in my new book on stroke recovery.

You can also look many of these tests up online for further reading. I suggest you speak with your health care professional if you’d like to have one of them performed to monitor your own cognitive fitness.

Now More on Cognitive Fitness After Stroke

The president’s interview along with a very shaky debate performance the week prior made me think of the lived experiences of stroke survivors and the scrutiny they face if cognition and speech become imparied. 

In fact, cognitive fitness was already top of mind for me before the media jumped on it, as earlier this same week I was informed my feedback to the editor of University of Rhode Island  (URI) Magazine  was published in the Summer 2024 edition.

I was responding to an article that appeared in the Spring 2024 edition with the title, “Why Does Stroke Increase the Risk of Alzheimer’s?”

David Dansereau, Know-Stroke.org

By some reports linked to the URI article, a blanket statement was made that survivors of ischemic stroke have ‘double the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia’. I’ll put links to the full magazine articles  below but also have included my reply to this inaccurate blanket statement about all stroke survivors in this photo below.

Bottom Line:

Readily available cognitive tests alone may not be a great gauge of fitness for the rigors of the presidency, but perhaps we should have some overall fitness standards or age upper thresholds in government. After all, we have them in the military and for pilots and others in charge of making quick decisions that influence the safety of many lives.

Should we be using cognitive fitness tests more in clinical practice for stroke survivors so we can measure brain resilience and possible change longitudinally over time? 

Accusing either presidential candidate of having dementia or lacking mental competence may score political points with some voters but could worsen the already existing stigma around losing cognitive fitness.

It could also prevent stroke survivors and perhaps older people wondering if they are losing mental sharpness from asking for help. With stroke, especially, there is a stigma that already comes with many of the other symptoms that are more readily visible to the eye. Restoring gait and balance often is only the tip of the iceberg for a stroke survivor faced with cognitive, speech or vision challenges. These deficits are only magnified when assumptions are often made about the brain attack of stroke causing memory loss without knowing the whole person’s lived experience and fitness level before the attack.

{Sidebar} To the editor’s at URI Magazine I thank you for including my comments. To the university research departments, faculty and staff that conduct vital brain research in areas that include ALS, Alzheimer’s and dementia, cognitive aging and age related memory loss, epilepsy, FTD, Levy body diseases, neurological health disparities, MS, Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathies, brain related hearing and vision loss, and of course stroke, please include the patient lived experience early and often in your research and give us a seat at the table to direct research that is most meaningful to them throughout the intervention life cycle.

The Real Experts

The patients living with the condition are the real experts, even though they may not have the credentials after their names to get the critical funding secured, they are living with the challenges of their diseases every day.

Count them in to the research and pay them for their time and expertise as well. Give them a seat side by side with the research team at every step in the process.

Don’t assume you know what they are feeling or what their fate will be based on estimates alone, much like we are all assuming right now about having an aging president in office.

References:

URI Magazine Summer Issue 2024

URI Magazine Spring Issue 2024

Linkedin Post: Restoring Gait and Balance is Only the Tip of the Iceberg in Stroke Recovery

Please chime in on the comments below. I’d like to know what you are doing to help boost your own cognitive fitness!

Post by David Dansereau

Full Disclosure:

I never talk politics on any of my sites and I am not implying any current or former President has had a stroke. This post reflects my ramblings and observations watching this media circus all unfold from a physical therapists perspective. Of note, I have also been challenged to recover my brain after a stroke and have dealt with the stigma the word stroke presents with questioning brain fitness.

I’ll be including more of these these thoughts on cognitive fitness after stroke in my upcoming new book, Power Play on my stroke recovery journey and advocacy for creating a new playbook to better support life after stroke.

Throughout my 17 years of stroke advocacy work, May 1st has always had special meaning. On May 1st 2007 I woke up at Mass General Hospital (MGH) in Boston to a clear head for the first time in almost a year since my stroke the year prior.  The heart surgery procedure  at MGH that day corrected a congenital heat defect that was believed to be the cause of my stroke at 39 years old.  

Earlier today while I was out on my morning run, I was reflecting on what the month of May has meant to me. -David Dansereau, Stroke Survivor

Today, May symbolizes stroke awareness month in the US and every year since my stroke I’ve continually pushed for more stroke prevention programs as well as better survivor and caregiver education  + recovery resources.  Still awareness opportunities, early intervention and educational opportunities in our hospitals, schools  and communities they serve are limited or non existent depending on your zip code.   Improved behavioral economics, sustainable funding and coordinated stroke prevention, awareness and aftercare efforts are needed.  This could help bright minds, young and old know stroke at a critical time when needs are greatest.  

Most efforts in the US are championed by stroke survivors and caregivers providing free support resources, and it is a heavy lift to sustain like the “FREE” bricks you see in the photo above. I found these in my neighborhood early this am and had to stop for this photo. 

As the son of a bricklayer you never pass up free bricks, especially if they are brick pavers. I thought to take them home a few at a time, (and perhaps run with them like Rocky) considering I was on the last mile from home, but that was a crazy idea.– David

Instead I restarted my timer and resumed my workout. Then I jumped in the SUV when I got back home and picked them up.

All 92 of them!!

There’s probably well over 92 volunteer led stroke support groups in the US as well as many many more individual stroke survivors and caregivers that are championing the heavy lift of trying to provide free support services and hope for survivors. I know we’ve had a handful of them on our Know Stroke Podcast over the years. Personally, I also know the heavy lift well as does my podcast co-host.

Back to my Run

Imagine if I had just one survivor champion with me on my run earlier this morning for each of those bricks.  We each could have picked up just one of those bricks and carried it back together.  It would not have been so hard under this pretend scenario and we theoretically could  build a better stroke support pathway with those pavers. We could also scale stroke recovery much faster to reach more zip codes, maybe even for free.

This intercollaborative effort needs more than celebrity and athletes’ stroke stories receiving headline news in May reviewing the stroke warning signs then reminding us again next May.

Here’s just one recent post for May highlighting a few of the celebrities that are connected with stroke.

Stay Tuned

May is just beginning and ‘stroke awareness month’ always lifts my game up to power play intensity and with it my BDNF and my running miles too! 

[Sidebar] My brain wants to figure this solution out with a better stroke recovery game plan. That’s what I’ve been reflecting on and writing about for the past year. If you want to know more, please reach out to me on this blog or connect with us on the Know Stroke Podcast.

How can you help?

Learn about my new book project and get updates-

https://www.know-stroke.org/know-stroke-book

post by David Dansereau

Takeaway-Imagine if a few of those bricks were carried by celebrities and athletes too. They are always welcome to join in with the heavy stroke lift that survivors and caregivers push through every day.

Welcome to my first post back on my Know Stroke Blog for 2024!  

[Quick Background and Update]

I’ve been a bit quiet through January but I assure you it’s because I’ve been planning for the year ahead.  As part of my annual process of reflection, I looked back at what topics resonated the most from 2023 on this blog, on my YouTube channels and through downloads on our Know Stroke Podcast. Without even a close second, what resonated with visitors via comments and through search impressions and views was anything to do with the words exercise and stroke. 

Exercise: The Most Vital Link to Optimal Stroke Recovery 

A deeper dive into these searches revealed more granular queries for “stroke recovery exercises for mobility and fall prevention”, “home stroke rehab options”,”stroke rehab technology”, and finally “home exercise guidelines following a stroke” were all top searches.  In fact, one blog post I wrote back in 2010 still draws the most traffic every month -entitled  ‘Exercise Guidelines for Stroke/PFO Patient Needed’ (more on this later at the end of this article).

It is important to understand if you are new to stroke why these searches are nothing new to the stroke survivor and caregiver looking to fill in the care gaps.  Unfortunately, life after stroke can be full of twists and turns and once therapy ends so often does the structured rehabilitation and exercise sessions that helped keep the stroke survivor moving and on a path to home discharge (oftentimes well before they had time to optimize mobility outcomes due to insurance limitations).  

Movement is medicine to the stroke survivor and taking away access to this vital link to health is criminal. The downward spiral that begins at discharge to home for most survivors happens fast if exercise is discontinued, and what quietly occurs after stroke “after discharge” is what I’d like to discuss in this post.

David Dansereau,MSPT Know-Stroke.org

Sarcopenia: The Biggest Quiet Threat and Late Effect of Stroke on Mobility

The effects from stroke can be multifaceted and affect many body systems depending on the site of the brain lesion and result in profound effects, both physical and emotional, on various aspects of a person’s health. One lesser-known but critical silent consequence of stroke is the development of sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass and strength. Sarcopenia can significantly impact a stroke survivor’s quality of life, hinder rehabilitation efforts, and increase the risk of further health complications. The goal of this post is to highlight the problem of sarcopenia after a stroke and suggest three crucial steps to reduce the risk and promote muscle health.

Understanding Sarcopenia After Stroke

Sarcopenia is a natural part of aging, but stroke survivors often experience an accelerated and more severe form of muscle loss. The reasons behind sarcopenia after a stroke are multifaceted and include factors such as immobility, inflammation, altered metabolism, and malnutrition. Loss of muscle mass can impede functional independence, decrease mobility, and contribute to an increased risk of falls.

Three Steps to Reduce the Risk of Sarcopenia

1. Early Mobilization and Rehabilitation

One of the most effective ways to counteract sarcopenia after a stroke is through early mobilization and rehabilitation. Physical activity and targeted exercises help maintain and build muscle mass, improve strength, and enhance overall mobility. Rehabilitation programs tailored to the individual’s abilities and needs play a crucial role in preventing muscle atrophy. Starting these interventions as early as possible in the recovery process can have a significant impact on minimizing sarcopenia. This is why access to ongoing rehabilitation is vital once the stroke survivor is discharged home.

Healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, and rehabilitation specialists, play a vital role in designing personalized exercise regimens. These programs may include a combination of resistance training, functional movements, and activities that promote balance and coordination. By incorporating these exercises into a stroke survivor’s routine, muscle wasting can be mitigated, and overall physical function can be improved. The discharge planning process should include a skilled handoff to appropriate community exercise options to reduce the chances of exercise relapse and prevent secondary complications from immobility. 

2. Adequate Nutritional Support

Malnutrition is a common concern after a stroke and can contribute to the development of sarcopenia. Adequate nutrition is essential for muscle health and recovery. Ensuring that stroke survivors receive a well-balanced diet with sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals is crucial. Protein, in particular, plays a pivotal role in muscle synthesis and repair.

Careful monitoring of nutritional intake, possibly with the assistance of a registered dietitian, can help identify and address deficiencies. Additionally, healthcare providers may recommend protein supplements to ensure that individuals receive the necessary nutrients for muscle preservation and recovery. A comprehensive approach that combines physical rehabilitation with proper nutrition is key to reducing the risk of sarcopenia after a stroke.

3. Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation of Care

Stroke recovery is a dynamic process, and the risks of sarcopenia accelerate over time. Therefore, continuous monitoring and adaptation of care are essential components of preventing and managing sarcopenia. Regular assessments of muscle strength, functional capacity, and nutritional status allow healthcare professionals to identify changes and adjust interventions accordingly could provide better insights and potentially improve outcomes.  Part of the real problem with stroke recovery currently is despite the technologies to measure and monitor these biomarkers for stroke recovery being readily available, there is a disconnect in stroke care utilizing these tools to manage long term stroke outcomes. 

In the US, there is not currently a connected ecosystem for stroke recovery management that benefits survivors and their families.

David Dansereau- Know-Stroke.org

What should happen “after” after stroke to minimize sarcopenia

Healthcare providers should collaborate with stroke survivors and their caregivers to establish a long-term plan for maintaining muscle health and helping keep a body in balance. This plan may include periodic reassessments, adjustments to exercise routines, and modifications to nutritional strategies based on individual progress and changing needs. By staying proactive and responsive to evolving conditions, healthcare teams could optimize outcomes and minimize the impact of sarcopenia on stroke survivors.

Bottom Line

Sarcopenia after a stroke poses a significant challenge to the overall well-being of survivors. However, with a comprehensive approach that includes early mobilization, nutritional support, and continuous monitoring and adaptation of care, the risk of muscle loss can be substantially reduced. By integrating these three steps into stroke rehabilitation and long-term care plans, healthcare professionals, caregivers, and stroke survivors can work together to promote muscle health and improve quality of life but we must build a connected stroke care community ecosystem to realize best outcomes.

This should be the moonshot mission for stroke care and breaking down current care silos will take a coordinated effort.

My New Book Release in 2024

Doing My Part to Connect Stroke Care

My plan since the beginning of recording my stroke recovery and advocacy journey through this blog has always been to build a meaningful resource for others.  After 16 years of posting and updating I’ve essentially kept a chronicle online of the barriers I’ve encountered in my stroke recovery, and what the promising future can hold for stroke care if we can overcome the present obstacles to connect care at discharge into the home. 

This is why this year my plan is to release chapters from my upcoming book that will spotlight the best of and worst of care so stroke survivors and their advocates will have a blueprint to learn from my mistakes and harness the wisdom of the wins I had as well. Finally,  innovators can follow this blueprint if they read my notes and want to make change a reality in the stroke care pathway.  I’ve pulled from my unique lived experience both as a stroke survivor, practicing physical therapist, degreed nutritionist and emerging rehab technology enthusiast to offer my insights and help others know stroke. 

In the coming weeks on this blog, I’ll drip a few of the chapters out and lay the foundation for the key pillars for a successful stroke recovery game plan.  I’ll share these insights through survivor stories, beginning with my own experiences trying to find safe exercise guidelines and eventually hacking my recovery and my way back to running multiple marathons after my stroke using both high tech strategies at the time and high touch home solutions. 

But before I ever aspired to run a marathon as part of my comeback stroke goal, my stroke journey actually began on the ice playing hockey in high school. I’ll share this part of my story in the next post and why, well before knowing about my congenital heart defect (PFO),  an early stroke was missed because I did not know the stroke warning signs and as you will discover neither did my coaches. 

Stay tuned!

In the Spirit of Giving

National Family Caregivers Month – celebrated each November — is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country.

Our podcast co-host Michael Garrow and fiancé Meg were featured in a spotlight by the American Heart Association. They recently had the opportunity to share their story of how stroke brought them together and offered advice for other caregivers. See AHA article 

We talked about this article and both Mike and Meg’s recognition for their caregiver roles on the latest Know Stroke Podcast Episode 64 during the “In the News” segment of the show intro.

I had a chance to share my knowledge of nutrition on episode 64 and how it helped as part of my stroke recovery game plan.  

I also provided nutrition toolkits and a replay of my Foods That Fit Nutrition Module from my new soon to be released Achieve Balance Course  that can be accessed free for our stroke community by registering for the special instant replay or joining a rebroadcast session here.
 

I mentioned this during my last post  Feed Your Brain: Using Food as Medicine to Fuel Stroke Recovery

Using Food as Medicine in Stroke Recovery: A Holistic Approach

Article rebublished from my Linkedin newsletter Achieve Balance for know-stroke.org

Previous articles in my Achieve Balance newsletter series have defined the problem of poor diets and the growing epidemic of chronic diseases at all ages.  The articles to follow in my series will focus on what individual action steps can be taken while working with your healthcare team to restore your own body back to balance. 

Let’s begin in this issue by discussing stroke and how feeding your brain well can play a role in prevention and recovery.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not to be used in place of medical advice which you should always receive from your own healthcare professional. 

Brief background on stroke:

A stroke can be a life-altering event, causing physical and cognitive challenges for survivors. While medical intervention and rehabilitation play a crucial role in stroke recovery, nutrition should not be underestimated. The saying, “You are what you eat,” holds true in stroke recovery, as food can be a powerful ally in the healing process. Stroke recovery can vary from person to person, but it often includes a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other medical interventions. These therapies are vital for regaining physical and cognitive abilities. Often overlooked, a comprehensive approach to recovery should also incorporate nutrition to promote healing, enhance brain health, and reduce the risk of future strokes. 

[Author’s Personal Sidebar]

I know all too well the challenges a stroke presents and have also realized the positive benefits of having a solid nutritional foundation to incorporate healing nutrition into my stroke recovery game plan.  In an upcoming episode of the Know Stroke Podcast, I’ll be sharing some lessons I learned about nutrition and recovery and offering some nutrition toolkit resources from my new Achieve Balance course for listeners after the podcast.  We’ll explore the role of using food as medicine in stroke recovery and how a holistic approach to nutrition can support the healing journey. 

Definition: Food as Medicine

“The provision of healthy food resources to prevent, manage, or treat specific clinical conditions in coordination with the health care sector”.

-American Heart Association

How it Works: Food as Medicine in Stroke Recovery

There is certainly a lot of conflicting information about nutrition and the role it plays in stroke recovery along with many varying opinions on the best “diet” to follow after a stroke.  This review and my focus for the upcoming podcast episode will not be about fad diets, supplements, time based/fasting diets or the “miracle” weight loss drugs you now hear about daily.  Instead, what follows is a  ‘Nutrition 101’ foundation of food science principles and evidence based suggestions you can begin to explore to build your nutrition IQ as it relates to brain / gut health and controlling inflammation after a stroke. 

The Basics

When I work with clients to assess their nutrition foundation, we always begin together to survey what they are already doing well.

I like to look at a very high level first and see what buckets their current nutrition intake is already filling within my  “3 Foundational Food F’s” . 

They are Fluids, Fat and Fiber. 

I’ll list their important roles below and briefly some practical examples of nutritional suggestions to try to support your own nutritional foundation and awareness.  

1. Fluids and Your Hydration:

Staying adequately hydrated is essential for overall health and recovery. Water is the most overlooked nutrient and key to digestion, absorption and utilization of all the other nutrients we use to fuel our bodies and regulate our temperature.  Dehydration can hinder the body’s ability to heal, so drink plenty of water and consume hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumber and try decaffeinated green or herb teas for added antioxidant protection. Try to reduce excessive caffeinated beverages along with alcohol, sodas and beverages loaded with sugars, added salts and other fake sweeteners as they are inflammatory and dehydrating to your body.  

2. Fats: Consider an ‘Oil Change’ to Tame Inflammation:

Inflammation in the body can exacerbate stroke-related damage, increase secondary risk and hinder recovery. Consider adding Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel as well as flaxseed and chia seeds as they have anti-inflammatory properties. Foods high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, like avocados and olive oil, can also help reduce the risk of further cardiovascular issues. Plant based foods rich in antioxidants sterols such as berries, dark leafy greens, and nuts, are also helpful to reduce inflammation. Making an ‘oil change’ towards these foods listed and away from cheaper and more processed oils found in many packaged and fast foods items will be beneficial for controlling inflammation and healing.  

3. Fiber and Digestive Health:

Stroke survivors may experience constipation due to decreased physical activity and medications. A diet rich in fiber from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help promote regular bowel movements and overall digestive health. In addition, fiber from these foods provides the key elements our gut microbiome needs to help control gut health, control appetite and regulate both blood sugar and cholesterol levels. We also now know a healthy gut plays a key role working with the brain in production of hormones and neurotransmitters responsible for appetite control and mood.  

Bottom Line

Using food as medicine in stroke recovery is a holistic approach that complements medical interventions and therapy. Feeding your brain a diet rich in anti-inflammatory, brain-boosting, and heart-healthy foods can significantly contribute to the healing process and preserve and boost brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)*.   Dietary changes can benefit modifiable risk of further strokes by reducing sodium intake, lowering blood pressure, and enhancing overall well-being.

Did you know? 

Earlier in the week JAMA online (doi:10.1001/jama.2023.2365) reported on a dietary crossover trial “Effects of Dietary Sodium on Blood Pressure” with a key finding that a low-salt diet cut BP by 6 mm Hg in 1 week! 

In this trial, it was reported the blood pressure–lowering effect of dietary sodium reduction was comparable with a commonly used first-line antihypertensive medication.  

Journal of the American Medical Association

*BDNF is a protein that plays a crucial role in the growth, survival, and maintenance of neurons (nerve cells) in the brain. It is beyond the scope of this article to dive deep into BDNF but your nutrition intake can directly impact neuroplasticity for the better or worse depending on how you set your plate.

Take Action!

Stroke survivors should work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a nutrition plan that suits their individual needs.

Health professionals should also ask their patients routinely about their diet to demonstrate it is important to them as well in the recovery plan of care.

Stroke recovery is a highly individualized process and this may also necessitate the need for specialized modified diets for safety especially with impaired food swallowing.

Depending on the type and severity of the stroke, as well as pre-existing health conditions, nutrition requirements may differ. 

Consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist to help create a personalized nutrition plan that aligns with your own needs and goals. Remember, food is not just sustenance; it can be a potent tool for healing, rejuvenation and restoring a body to balance.

Be sure to listen to my upcoming Know Stroke Podcast Nutrition Episode 64 for more resources including my Foods That Fit and Anti-Infammatory Foods Tipsheets as well as a special offer replay from my course module Four- Foods That Fit for our stroke community!

Sources:

Presidential Advisory from the American Heart Association September 2023 and review article that appeared in AHA’s Circulation (2023;148:1417-1439) on Food as Medicine. 

JAMA online (doi:10.1001/jama.2023.2365) dietary crossover trial “Effects of Dietary Sodium on Blood Pressure”

Body in Balance Book

This year’s theme for World Stroke Day 2023 is stroke prevention. One in four of us will have a stroke in our lifetime. It is estimated that 90% of those strokes could be prevented by addressing a small number of risk factors including high blood pressure (hypertension), irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation), smoking, diet and exercise. The Know Stroke Podcast stands behind this mission as well so together we can be #GreaterThanStroke.

Today we join the global stroke community to raise awareness and drive action on stroke prevention. 

Get involved by sharing this episode and the new stroke resource the World Stroke Organization and In The Room have released with stroke survivor and podcast guest from Episode 52, Stacie Broek. In this special edition episode hear from Stacie as we bring her back to introduce this special project that will help raise awareness and provide a new interactive AI enhanced resource for survivors, caregivers and families impacted by stroke.

Before introducing Stacie, co-hosts Mike and David reflect on episodes that resonated with them this past year. They also discuss the work they will be doing to close out 2023 with a focus on nutrition, exercise and better health strategies to help you achieve balance moving into the new year.

About Stacie Broek:

Stacie Broek is a stroke survivor, memoirist, and advocate for stroke awareness. After surviving a carotid artery dissection in 2019, she embarked on a mission to redefine the stroke narrative and provide support to fellow survivors and their families. Stacie is a driving force behind “In the Room with a Stroke Survivor,” a transformative project in collaboration with the World Stroke Organization and In the Room.

Enter in the Room with a Stroke Survivor

About World Stroke Organization:

The World Stroke Organization is the only global body solely focused on stroke and represents stroke specialists in clinical, research and community settings. The World Stroke Organization is dedicated to reducing the global burden of stroke through prevention, treatment and continuity of care.

About In The Room:

In the Room is a conversational media platform that connects individuals, organizations and causes with a global community. It provides a space for meaningful conversations, shared experiences and collaborative efforts to drive positive change.

It is estimated that 90% of those strokes could be prevented by addressing a small number of risk factors including high blood pressure (hypertension), irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation), smoking, diet and exercise.

Worls Stroke Organization

Show Credits:

Music intro credit to Jake Dansereau. Our intro welcome is the voice of Caroline Goggin, a stroke survivor and our first podcast guest! Please listen to her inspiring story on Episode 2 of the podcast.

Be sure to give the show a like and share, & follow and connect with us on social or contact us to support us as a show sponsor or become a guest on the Know Stroke Podcast. Visit website to to learn more: https://www.knowstrokepod.com/

Connect with Us and Share our Show on Social:

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Preparing your home for all of life’s changes after a stroke can be overwhelming. In fact, the word discharge can be terrifying for both survivor, caregiver and treating therapists alike to provide continued safe access and mobility.  We’ve heard many times from past expert rehabilitation guests on our podcast that they predict ‘the future of stroke recovery will be in the home’. But that home must be safe and accessible first. So, how do we make it the best place to be?  For the stroke survivor, this is not a nicety, it is a necessity and adapting for safe home access is one of the largest unseen issues in stroke recovery.

In Episode 62 of the Know Stroke Podcast we wanted to dive into this topic and offer solutions with a home access expert.

Did you know? Currently, according to AARP statistics, less than 5% of all US homes have features needed to support a safe and accessible (aging in place) home even though 80% or more older adults surveyed want to stay in their home as long as possible. 

AARP

Our Episode 62 Guest

We welcomed our expert guest Justin Oakley, MSOTR/L Co-founder and Chief Development Officer at Oakley Home Access. Justin is a registered & licensed Occupational Therapist as well an Executive Certified Home Modification Provider. Oakley Home Access can assist a wide array of community members ranging from stroke survivors needing home access accommodations, children with special needs to the elderly striving to age-in-place. Oakley Home Access will provide free home safety assessments and full service home modifications, ranging from removing area rugs to providing a variety of adaptive equipment to assist mobility needs throughout the home, including complete remodels. 

Justin and his co-founding partner Mike Vieira (experienced contractor + CAPS certified) provide dual expertise (clinical + construction) that is unmatched and provides a unique educational piece that has become their secret sauce to success and foundation for plans for expansion. In this episode we explore how their education, empathy and energy are the key ingredients that keep their team’s core values aligned to help customers realize their goals for continued safe access and independence in their home. 

Reach out to our guest at Oakley Home Access

Show Mentions:

Join our Know Stroke News mailing list to get all of our latest (Taylor Swift) updates and search past issues:

World Stroke Organization / In the Room AI Conversational Experience with Stroke Survivor and past show guest Stacie Broek (Ep  52)

Constant Therapy Promotion

Be sure to visit our affiliate partner at Constant Therapy Health and receive 15% of of their services by mentioning “KnowStroke” at checkout. Also be sure to check out our recent guest post on their Brainwire Blog.

Show Credits:

Music intro credit to Jake Dansereau. Our intro welcome is the voice of Caroline Goggin, a stroke survivor and our first podcast guest! Please listen to her inspiring story on Episode 2 of the podcast.

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Time Sensitive: If you have been impacted by any of Ralph’s great work I encourage you to nominate him as well to CNN.

Here’s the CNN link for more details

Dear CNN Heroes Selection Committee,

It is with great enthusiasm and admiration that I submit this nomination letter on behalf of Ralph Preston, the remarkable founder of Stroke Buddies non-profit organization, for the prestigious CNN Hero Award. Ralph’s unwavering dedication and compassionate efforts have transformed the lives of countless stroke survivors, making him an exceptional candidate for this esteemed recognition.

Ralph Preston is a true hero who has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the stroke survivor community. His journey began with a personal experience that inspired him to establish Stroke Buddies, a groundbreaking non-profit organization aimed at providing invaluable support, resources, and advocacy for stroke survivors and their families. Under his visionary leadership, Stroke Buddies has grown into a beacon of hope and a lifeline for those affected by stroke.

One of Ralph’s most notable achievements is the establishment of a comprehensive support network for stroke survivors. Through Stroke Buddies, he has created a platform that connects survivors with survivors. Through his volunteer efforts he offers them emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of belonging during their recovery process. Ralph’s empathetic and hands-on approach has allowed countless stroke survivors to regain their confidence, rebuild their lives, and find a renewed sense of purpose.

Ralph’s dedication to stroke awareness and education is also unparalleled. He has tirelessly worked to dispel myths surrounding stroke, promote preventive measures, and raise public awareness about the warning signs and symptoms. Through community outreach programs, educational workshops and stroke education videos, and media campaigns, Ralph has ensured that vital information reaches individuals and families at risk, potentially saving lives and preventing devastating consequences.

Moreover, Ralph’s impact extends far beyond his local community. He has spearheaded numerous initiatives to advocate for patients, improved healthcare services by bringing in the patient experience, and advocating for funding for stroke prevention and ongoing treatment in recovery. Ralph’s relentless pursuit of progress has not only influenced physicians and healthcare institutions but has also inspired countless individuals to become active participants in stroke-related initiatives and connected stroke communities.

In addition to his remarkable achievements, Ralph possesses the qualities that define a true hero: unwavering passion, boundless compassion, and an indomitable spirit. He leads by example, going above and beyond to provide the necessary resources and support to stroke survivors, regardless of their background or circumstances. Ralph’s infectious optimism and genuine care have touched the lives of all those who have had the privilege of crossing paths with him.

We had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Ralph on one of our episodes of the Know Stroke Podcast and have continued to stay connected to help bridge educational gaps for stroke since his interview with us.

In conclusion, Ralph Preston is a selfless advocate who has dedicated his life to improving the lives of stroke survivors and their families. Through his transformative work with Stroke Buddies, he has created a lasting impact that reverberates within the stroke community and beyond. Ralph’s exceptional achievements, unwavering commitment, and remarkable leadership make him an exemplary candidate for CNN’s Hero Award.

I wholeheartedly endorse Ralph Preston for this prestigious honor. His outstanding contributions to the stroke survivor community have truly made a difference, and I believe that recognizing his achievements will not only inspire others but also shed light on the critical issue of stroke prevention and recovery.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I am confident that by honoring Ralph Preston as a CNN Hero, you will shine a spotlight on his invaluable work and provide him with the platform and financial support to continue making a profound impact on the lives of stroke survivors worldwide.

Sincerely,

David Dansereau

Stroke Survivor

Co-Host Know Stroke Podcast

For more info please listen to this show intro for Ralph’s Nomination

Nominate Ralph Preston for CNN Heroes Award– (Time Sensitive – closes 7/31/23)

https://www.cnn.com/specials/cnn-heroes-nominations

Ralph’s Stroke Resources:

YouTube

Facebook

Let’s shed light on a topic that often gets overlooked: the stigma surrounding strokes. As someone who has personally experienced this journey, I understand the challenges and the misconceptions that come with it. It’s time to break the silence and start a conversation!

Living with a stroke is not easy. Physically, emotionally, and mentally, it takes a toll. But what makes it even harder is the stigma attached to it. Society sometimes misunderstands stroke survivors, assuming they are weak or incapable or somehow forever have brains that are damged. Let’s change that narrative!

Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age. They don’t discriminate. And while the road to recovery might be long and bumpy, stroke survivors and their caregivers are warriors, fighting every day to regain their independence and the lives they knew before their brain was attacked.

Stroke Survivors deserve our support, understanding, and respect.

So let’s challenge the stereotypes together! Let’s raise awareness about the realities of living with a stroke.

We’ve started this discussion on our Know Stroke Podcast, but as we speak with more and more survivors and caregivers we know there is so much more work to do to unpack the “late effect” of stroke that goes unmentioned.

Instead, let’s celebrate the strength, resilience, and determination of stroke survivors. Let’s create an inclusive world where no one feels ashamed or isolated because of their health condition and can admit they may need help to return to a best life after stroke.

If you know someone who has experienced a stroke, reach out to them. Offer a listening ear, a helping hand, or simply a smile. Together, we can make a difference and break down the barriers that perpetuate stigma. Let’s promote compassion, empathy, and support more education about stroke.

David Dansereau-Know-Stroke.org | Co-Host Know Stroke Podcast

Remember, strokes do not define a person.

They are just a part of their story. Let’s rewrite the narrative and embrace the uniqueness of every individual and the potential new superpower they may uncover in their life after stroke.

Together, we can build a society that values and supports everyone, regardless of their health challenges. To begin, Let’s talk about it!

Tune in to the Know Stroke Podcast to learn more about some of our survivors who have shared their stories about the stigma of stroke.

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