Support

“Needing support doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means that you’re human.”

You shouldn’t have to ask for support after a stroke.

But just because people should be attentive and offer support doesn’t mean they will, sadly. 

For some reason, many people think that since you survived the stroke, you’re home and you haven’t been admitted to a rehab facility, that you’re fine. No help needed. And they move on.

But wait-what if you really do need help?

What if everything isn’t “fine” and you need help getting to therapy or follow-up appointments or to get groceries? What then? 

Ask them. Put it out there. And if they are “too busy”/ can’t or won’t help, take them off your Christmas card list. Just kidding.  Let them be and move on.

Don’t get discouraged.

There may be resources in your community that can help you. If you have a Senior and Disability Services office near you, they are very helpful. If you attend church, call them. 

My parents had meals delivered from Meals-On-Wheels when they really needed help. Your insurance company may provide caregiving services if you ask for them. Groceries can be delivered.

For local support, connect with the Stroke Support Group finder through stroke.org.

They’ll help you find the support that you need. And it doesn’t cost anything.

Just don’t give up.