Stroke Forward: How to Become Your Own Healthcare Advocate . . . One Step at a Time

On March 30, 2014 my entire world changed. I had a stroke at age fifty-three.

Until it happens, none of us realize how frightening a near-death experience truly is. My husband, Jim, quickly learned that he had to speak up for me . . . because I couldn’t speak for myself.

Being suddenly thrown into a role neither of us understood, Jim became my advocate: the supporter, spokesperson, and caregiver who acted on my behalf as we navigated the complex healthcare system. He watched, listened, and questioned the actions of others around me to ensure I had the best medical and recovery care.

If you are someone who is a patient with a serious brain injury looking for hope and insights into ways to keep moving forward with your recovery, this book is for you. The foundation for this book is my research to more clearly understand what happened to me and how we, as stroke survivors, could thrive. Insights from one physical therapist and three doctors who were instrumental in my healing journey are also included. My hope is that my story will be an inspiration to keep you striving forward.

If you are a family member or friend who has been thrust into the role of guarding over someone with a brain injury, you’ll discover that you are not alone in your quest to be the best caregiver you can be. The tips and insights shared here by family and friends who were plunged into the same position may be enlightening and beneficial. May this book shed some light on this new path you are traveling.

About the Author

Holding a B.S. in Political Science from the University of North Dakota, a Master’s in Business Administration, from Chapman University, and founder of Performance Architect, Marcia Moran wrote over fifty business plans and created value by strategizing how companies could remain relevant as the world changed around them. She also co-founded Positive Business DC to increase well-being in the workforce.

When her stroke in 2014 turned her world upside down, she applied her planning and strategy skills to become whole. Her journey of learning to become her own health advocate one step a time is shared inside this book. Marcia speaks and shares her message of hope, inspiration, healing, and a way forward across the country.

For more information go to www.StrokeForward.com.