If I have a stroke, I’d like my family to hang this wish list up
on the wall where I live and where you live. And, pass it on to your friends and relatives:
Rules for a Good Life After a Stroke
If I have a stroke, I want my friends and
family to embrace my reality. I am still the same person on the inside. I just
have difficulty getting it on the outside. Please be patient with me and let me
finish. Remember, I'm rebuilding my brain pathways.
If I have a stroke, I don’t want to be treated like a
child. Talk to me like the adult that I am.
If I have a stroke, I still want to enjoy the things that I’ve
always enjoyed. Help me find a way to exercise, read and visit with friends.
Don’t isolate me. I still need my friends, and my friends can help me improve
just by being there.
If I have a stroke, don’t be afraid to reminisce with me. I still
like to hear about the fun things we did. Remember, I'm rebuilding my brain pathways.
If I have a stroke, and I become agitated, take the time to figure
out what is bothering me. Sometimes I have no control over my emotions but don’t
worry, I won’t hurt you. Remember, I'm rebuilding my brain pathways.
If I have a stroke, treat me the way that you would want to be
treated.
If I have a stroke, make sure that there are plenty of snacks for
me in the house. Even now, if I don’t eat I get angry, and if I have a stroke,
I may have trouble explaining what I need. Remember, I'm rebuilding my brain pathways.
If I have a stroke, don’t talk about me as if I’m not in the room. Remember, I'm rebuilding my brain pathways.
If I have a stroke and you are my caregiver, don’t feel guilty if
you can’t care for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s not your fault, and
you’ve done your best. It would help if you can find someone who can help you.
If I have a stroke and you are a friend, the best thing you can do
for me is ask my caregiver if there is something you can help with. It doesn’t
have to be much they’ll appreciate any help they can get, big or small.
If I have a stroke, and I have to live in a stroke care facility
like a nursing home, or some such, please visit me often.
If I have a stroke, don’t act frustrated if I mix up names, events
or places. Take a deep breath. It’s not my fault and it's not your fault. Remember, I'm rebuilding my brain pathways.
If I have a stroke, don’t exclude me from parties and family
gatherings. Social interaction helps me improve. Remember, I'm rebuilding my brain pathways.
If I have a stroke, know that I still like receiving hugs or
handshakes.
If I have a stroke,
remember that I am still the person you know and love, I'm just rebuilding my brain pathways.
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