MADDIE'S STORY

Many people would never know this by looking at me, but I am a stroke survivor. 

About three years ago in May 2016, I experienced one of the worst days of my life.  As a healthy, active 23-year-old woman getting ready for work on a normal Monday morning, I had a stroke.  Details of the events included: a rushed trip to the ER, life threatening medicine administration, 1 week in the ICU, numerous tests to determine the cause of the stroke and what seemed like an eternity of uncertainty and fear.  After one week in the hospital, I was informed of an undiagnosed hole in the wall of my heart that was the size of a quarter.  Can you believe that?  I underwent open heart surgery the following week and the hole was repaired.  Because of this diagnosis, both of my brothers had their hearts checked by our doctor.  It turns out my brother, Charlie, had the same condition.  He underwent surgery, and has not had any issue since.

Sometimes I can't believe all of this happened.  Thanks to the wonderful staff at Baptist Health, my family and friends, life couldn't be sweeter.  My family and I are called to share my story in hopes of raising stroke awareness and saving more lives in the future.  We want to raise awareness for the signs of a stroke and unknown heart conditions.  Our goal for Hearty Party is to raise awareness for the signs of a stroke as we know it can happen to anyone.  All donations will directly benefit the American Heart Association.

 Thank you for your support and we can't wait to celebrate with you!

With Heart, Maddie