Jeri Ward: From Stroke Survivor to Mrs. Ohio International
I think life works in miraculous ways sometimes, ways that you never asked for and ways that you never expected.
What happens when your life takes an unexpected turn, and you find yourself facing a stroke? Jeri Ward, the current Mrs. Ohio International, knows this all too well. In this episode of 'Recovery After Stroke', Jeri opens up about the moment she heard a popping sound in her head and knew something was seriously wrong. She shares her journey from that life-altering day in 2018 to becoming a beacon of hope and resilience.
Jeri talks candidly about the challenges she faced, including significant damage to her carotid artery and brain. But her story doesn't end there. She discusses the importance of self-care and the coping mechanisms that helped her navigate this tough journey. Her path to becoming Mrs. Ohio International wasn't just about pageantry; it was a platform for raising awareness about stroke and its impact.
Jeri also founded The Lemonade Project, a program dedicated to teaching self-care techniques and prioritizing health for stroke survivors and caregivers. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the value of community support and finding purpose after adversity. Jeri's story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of life’s toughest challenges, resilience and purpose can lead to extraordinary outcomes.