Hey FABulous Reader!

When we hear the word stroke, many people automatically think of older adults. But as we know here at Stroke Talks, stroke doesn't have an age requirement.

Chloe was just 9 years old when she experienced a stroke. Now, at 23, she's navigating adulthood, relationships, friendships, and everything else that comes with growing up. And this time, she brought someone special to our conversation: her boyfriend, Ari!

We talked about how they met (and yes, there's a funny dating story in there 😂), how Chloe approached telling Ari about her stroke and disability, and what it means to have someone who supports you while still allowing you to be yourself.

But we also got into some deeper conversations about insecurities, friendships, mental health, and those hidden challenges of stroke that people don't always see or understand.

One thing I really appreciated was hearing Chloe talk about wanting to be loved and accepted for who she is, not defined by what happened to her at nine. Because life after stroke isn't just about physical recovery. It's about living, growing, building relationships, and finding your place in the world.

And guess what? Chloe and Ari are coming back for Part 3!

There's still so much to talk about, and next time I want to dig a little deeper into Ari's perspective. What was his initial reaction when he learned Chloe had experienced a stroke? What did he think when he first saw how the stroke affected her arm? And how did those early moments shape his understanding of Chloe and their relationship?

Oh, we're going to have a conversation!

But first, catch up on this one.

❤️ WATCH CHLOE & ARI'S CONVERSATION ON STROKE TALKS​

While you're there, leave us a comment, give the video a thumbs-up, and subscribe to the Stroke Talks YouTube channel so you don't miss Part 3.

🏆 A Little Shameless Self-Promotion! Can I Ask You a Favor?

Alright, Stroke Talks family, I'm about to ask y'all for a little favor! And yes, I'm shamelessly asking (cause I really do struggle with making the ask for support).

The American Stroke Association is accepting nominations for its Stroke Hero Awards, and I would love your support!

Since experiencing my stroke in April 2021, I've made it part of my mission to help bring more awareness to stroke, including lesser-known causes like carotid webbing and the challenges survivors face that aren't always visible.

Through Stroke Talks, I share real conversations with fellow survivors about their experiences, recovery, and navigating life after stroke. With Mingle Mondays, I'm creating a welcoming space where survivors can connect with people who understand.

I don't do this work for recognition, but if there's an opportunity to shine a little light on what we're building here, why not?

If you believe in the work I'm doing, I'd be honored if you'd nominate me, Sybil Jones/Stroke Talks, for a Stroke Hero Award.

There are two categories you might consider:

❤️ Survivor Hero: Recognizes stroke survivors who use their personal experiences to educate, inspire, and raise awareness about stroke.

❤️ Community Impact Hero: Recognizes individuals or groups making a difference through stroke education, awareness, community engagement, and efforts to improve stroke-related health opportunities.

Choose whichever category you feel best represents my work.

Here's my nominee information to make completing the form a little easier:

• Name: Sybil Jones
• Organization/Community: Stroke Talks
• Website: https://stroketalks.com​
• Email: stroketalks@mamasandcoffee.com​
• Phone: 901.292.8870
• City/State/ZIP: Lorton VA 22079

🏆 NOMINATE ME FOR A STROKE HERO AWARD​

Nomination deadline: November 4, 2026, at 8 p.m. Central Time.

🎙️ Got a Stroke Story to Share? Let's Talk!

I want to hear YOUR story! Whether you want to sit down and yap with me LIVE, write a guest blog post, or record a short video to share on Stroke Talks social media, I'd love to hear from you!

We all have different experiences, and you never know who might need to hear yours.

Interested? Head over to StrokeTalks.com and submit your information. I'll reach out to discuss next steps and scheduling.

Let's get your story out there! ❤️

Thank you for being part of Stroke Talks, sharing these conversations, and helping me continue to spread stroke awareness. I appreciate every one of you!

AND keep an eye out for my next virtual Mingle Monday.