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My Stroke Story
Still me.
A new way forward.
Life after stroke, one-handed discoveries, and room for a little laughter. Hi, I’m Debbie. I’m glad you’re here.
Life after stroke,
in my own words.
Welcome to my little corner of the internet. I’m a stroke survivor sharing life as I learn it: the adjustments, the everyday questions, and the moments worth smiling about.
There’s no perfect-recovery performance here. Just a real person making room for what comes next. Pull up a chair. We can figure out a few things together.
I’ve used both a walker and a cane. These days, I mostly use my cane. At night, I use my walker because getting around is harder then.
Thirty days of sharing my story.
A stroke changed my life, but it didn’t change who I am. I’m still Debbie—with stories to tell, things to figure out, and plenty of reasons to keep going.
Over these thirty days, I’m sharing what life after my stroke has been like for me. The things I miss. The everyday tasks that suddenly became a challenge. The frustration of needing help when I’d rather do something myself. And the small victories that might look ordinary to someone else, but mean so much to me.
The changes, the challenges, and the moments worth smiling about.
Some days, this story is hard to tell. Other days, there’s something to laugh about—even when nothing has gone according to plan. I want to make room for all of it, because living after a stroke is more than a list of appointments or a measure of what you can and can’t do.
It’s learning how to get through your day differently. It’s missing your independence while finding ways to do things for yourself. It’s being grateful for help and frustrated that you need it, sometimes in the very same moment.
These posts are my experiences, in my own words. I don’t have every answer, and I’m still learning as I go. But I hope sharing honestly helps someone feel a little less alone—or helps a friend or family member understand what life after a stroke can feel like.
Start at the beginning, or choose a post that speaks to you. Read a little, stay awhile, and come back whenever you like. I’m glad you’re here to share this part of my life with me.
One hand. Plenty of possibilities.
Everyday tasks can turn into surprisingly creative projects. This space is for one-handed living ideas, honest experiments, and little changes that may make the day easier.
Getting ready & getting on with it
Clothing, daily routines, and ways to approach familiar tasks differently. I’ll share the details about what I use.
Everyone’s abilities and needs are different. Adapt ideas with your own care team when needed.
Useful finds, with the details up front.
This will be home to practical product recommendations for one-handed living.
We’re reviewing potential finds for everyday tasks. These are the items I use.
How recommendations will work
Each product will explain its purpose and any relevant limitations. Prices and availability come from the seller.
Affiliate disclosure: Some future links may be affiliate links. If you buy through one, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links will be clearly identified near the recommendation.
A little care can go a long way.
Havasu Cares is part of the community side of my story. This section will share verified information about the organization and ways to get involved as those details are ready.
My connection: I’m Debbie, the founder and president of Havasu Cares. I want that relationship to be clear whenever I mention the organization here.
Tax status: Havasu Cares’ IRS tax-exempt status is pending.
A story, not a prescription.
This website shares personal experience and general information. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Questions about your own care belong with a qualified healthcare professional.
My Stroke Story
Still learning. Still living. Still me.