Hey FABulous Reader!

I came across an article about younger people having strokes, I can't help but think about my own experience. Because if someone had told me years ago that I would have a stroke at 43, I probably would've looked at them like they had lost their mind. A stroke? ME? At 43?

But here I am, five years later, a stroke survivor.

I recently came across an article in The Washington Post discussing how strokes are becoming more common among adults under 55. One study found that stroke rates among adults ages 20–54 in a region of Ohio and Kentucky nearly doubled between the early 1990s and 2020.

Now, I'm not sharing this to scare anybody. I'm sharing it because we have GOT to stop associating strokes with just older people.

My stroke happened on April 17, 2021, because of a rare condition called carotid webbing. And while the article discusses more common risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes, my experience is a reminder that strokes can happen for different reasons.

And speaking of age, let me tell you about Chloe.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Chloe for Stroke Talks. She experienced a massive stroke when she was just 9 YEARS OLD! Yes, NINE!

She was a fourth grader looking forward to trying out for a school musical when her life changed. Today, she's 23 and sharing her story of recovery, growing up with a disability, and finding her voice.

As a mother of three daughters, Chloe's story really hit home for me. During our conversation, I kept thinking about how she and my oldest daughter are the same age. Can you imagine sending your child off to school for a normal day and receiving a phone call that changes everything?

I wrote about Chloe's experience, and I really encourage you to take a few minutes to read or watch (cause the interview is also shared in the article) her story. It's about so much more than having a stroke. It's about growing up, overcoming challenges, and learning to embrace who you are.

❤️ Read Chloe's Story: A Stroke at Nine Years Old​

And if you'd like to read the article that sparked today's conversation, here's the link:

☕ The Washington Post: More People Are Having Strokes Before 55​

Before I go, here's my reminder. Pay attention to your body, know your risk factors, and PLEASE learn the warning signs of stroke.

Remember B.E. F.A.S.T. — Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time to call 911.

Whether you're 9, 43, 55, or 85, stroke doesn't have an age requirement.

And here's something I'd love to know. Before your stroke or the stroke of someone you love, did you think strokes only happened to older people?

Hit reply and tell me. You know I love to yap!

Know the signs. Save a life.

☕️ Let's Sip & Yap in November! Virtual and always FREE

​Thursday, November 19 | 7–8 PM ET

We're getting together again, and since Thanksgiving is right around the corner, let's have a little fun!

Come prepared to tell us about your FAVORITE Thanksgiving dish.

Or better yet, tell us about the WORST Thanksgiving dish you've ever cooked or eaten!

Because listen… we all know somebody who needs to stop bringing that ONE dish to the family gathering! 😂😂

Seriously, though, these gatherings are about building connections, sharing experiences, and making room for a little laughter.

Sybil aka MomJonz​
Stroke Warrior | Founder of Stroke Talks™
​Be FABulous!

P.S. Know someone who could benefit from this message? Forward this newsletter to them. You never know whose life you might help save by sharing a little knowledge. ❤️

While you're there, leave us a comment, give the video a thumbs-up, and subscribe to the Stroke Talks YouTube channel.

🎙️ 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 Sip & Yap.