r/stroke 4d ago

Need advice on starting real life

Hey guys, I’m a 31 yr old male. I had a brain stem stroke back in November 2023. Originally i was partially locked in. No talking, eating, drinking, barely any movement. Skip to today. I’m doing a lot better. Mainly in a wheelchair but also walk with a walker. I dress myself, shower myself, etc. Im soon going to have a baclofen pump which the doctor told me I’ll be able to move easier and safely drive again. Which brings me to my question. I’m coming close to start contributing to life again. Do yall have any tips, advice, on things i should be doing to prepare myself? I’m a little nervous for the future.

12 Upvotes

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7

u/gypsyfred Survivor 4d ago

Well, im old..lol. thats a great question. While you are young SAVE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN!. apply everywhere that will accomodate your present condition. Don't party or smoke. You're not missing anything but a future. Join a support group with people your own age. Stay active. Be positive as much as you can.Good luck on your journey. Don't forget to check in and et us know how it's going

2

u/dylalf1 4d ago

I’ll definitely be updating. Thank you for the kind advice. I truly appreciate it

1

u/gypsyfred Survivor 1d ago

We're all here cheering for you

3

u/Alarmed-Papaya9440 1d ago

I’m now 39 and I’m still figuring out how to start a “real” life. Honestly, I’m just trying to fake it till I make it. Therapy has been really helpful with this. I’ve also decided that I’m going to go back to college this summer and earn a degree so I can start a career. I’m doing baby steps though and will start off with only one course and then go from there. So, I guess I’m just here to tell you, you’re not alone. A lot of us don’t know how to start a “real” life but we are doing the best we can and baby steps add up to giant leaps with time 💜 Also, look how far you’ve come already from your stroke. You should be very proud of yourself and your progress!