Brooke Parsons: A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy After Stroke
Episode Overview
Brooke Parsons shares her journey of surviving a stroke at age 13. Discusses the unique challenges faced by young stroke survivors. Highlights the importance of tailored support systems for recovery. Explores her advocacy work and involvement with the Young Stroke Service. Offers practical advice and hope for those navigating life after a stroke.
The hardest thing for me was accepting the fact I lost old Brooke. However, I gained a Brooke who is fierce, who is stubborn, who can be a loudmouth.
Brooke Parsons is a stroke survivor, a stroke foundation ambassador, and a lived experience consultant who has spent more than three decades advocating for stroke survivors. In this episode, she shares her inspiring story of resilience, the challenges of living with deficits, and her work to ensure stroke survivors have a voice in their recovery journey. Brooke was just 13 when she had her stroke, an age where most kids are worrying about school and friends, not life-altering medical events.
Her parents found her on the floor, surrounded by shattered glass, and rushed her to the hospital. Despite being initially misdiagnosed with a migraine, Brooke's family persisted until she received the correct diagnosis. Her journey from a studious A-grade student to a fierce advocate is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Brooke discusses the unique challenges faced by young stroke survivors and the importance of tailored support systems.
She talks about her involvement with the Young Stroke Service at the Florey Institute, which focuses on meeting the needs of younger stroke survivors. Her story is a powerful reminder that stroke recovery is not just about physical rehabilitation but also about finding a new normal and redefining one's identity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by stroke, whether directly or indirectly.
Brooke's candid reflections on her journey offer hope and practical advice for navigating life after a stroke. Her resilience and advocacy work are a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Tune in to hear Brooke's incredible journey and learn how you can support stroke survivors in your community.