Julie sits down with Nancy Spano, author of "Stroke of Love." Nancy shares her deeply moving story as a stroke and cancer survivor, wife, mother, and advocate. The episode dives deep into Nancy's near-death experience, her remarkable recovery, and the life-changing lessons she gained. Listeners will hear about the symptoms Nancy experienced before her stroke, the emotional impact on her family, and how her brush with death gave her a renewed sense of purpose.Nancy Spano’s Story: www.strokeoflovebook.comNancy suffered a stroke at age 46 in 2019.She describes the week leading up to her stroke, highlighting changes in her vision, behavior, and cognitive functions.Nancy recounts her near-death experience, including a profound spiritual moment where she felt guided to return and share her story.Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke (as experienced by Nancy). Recognizing stroke symptoms early is crucial. Nancy’s story highlights real-world warning signs that saved her life: Vision Changes:Nancy experienced loss of peripheral vision in her right eye. She noticed she couldn’t parallel park as usual (even referencing, “I couldn’t parallel park because I couldn’t. The peripheral vision in my right eye was gone.”).Personality & Cognitive Changes:Her personality shifted—becoming irritable, frustrated, and more detached than usual. Her husband noticed the change (“My personality was changing... I wanted to unzip myself from myself.”).Difficulty with Everyday Tasks:Nancy found herself unable to perform ordinary activities. She sat down to clean her vacuum but couldn’t remember how, leading to fear and frustration.Confusion in Familiar Settings:Grocery shopping became overwhelming—she forgot why she was there, what she needed, and became anxious when unable to process labeled aisles.Sudden Physical Symptoms:She lost control over the right side of her body, experiencing paralysis and an inability to use her right arm and leg.Panic Attacks and Emotional Overwhelm:Nancy describes a panic attack in the store, feeling the urge to curl up and cry.Seizure and Loss of Awareness:As her husband called 911, Nancy experienced a seizure and drifted in and out of consciousness.Medical CausesNancy’s stroke was ultimately linked to high blood pressure exacerbated by a medication (Effexor). She notes she was not informed about the risk or need to monitor blood pressure on this medication.Why Awareness MattersNancy’s journey underscores the importance of recognizing and acting on stroke symptoms, especially in younger individuals or those who might dismiss early warning signs. Quick response saved Nancy’s life.Common Signs of Stroke to Watch For (based on Nancy's account and general medical advice):Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg—especially on one side of the bodySudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understandingSudden difficulty seeing in one or both eyesSudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordinationSevere headache with no known causeIf you or a loved one experience these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Time is critical.LEARN MORE HERE: Stroke Of Love💞CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITE SKINCARE LINE- THE ORGANIC SKIN CO. The Organic Skin CoYour skin will thank you for it AND the world will thank you- as they plant a tree with each product bought!🔥 Are you ready to become the best version of yourself? Tune into Obsessed with Humans on the Verge of Change — the life-changing podcast that explores healing, purpose, empowerment, and bold transformation. Each episode is designed to help you level up with real tools, real stories, and real conversations that matter.💥 Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts and follow us on YouTube for LIVE episodes!✨ What We're Obsessed WithWe are OBSESSED with humans who are ready to break through fear, trauma, and limiting beliefs. Hosted by thought leaders and transformational experts!Feel and Look Beautiful While Saving The Planet.Get Obsessed with The Organic Skin Care Co.⬇️https://theorganicskinco.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related