Tips from a Three-Time Stroke Survivor

Published on March 1, 2023

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By Jerrita Hall

My name is Jerrita Hall and I am a three-time stroke survivor currently regaining function of my left side, which was once paralyzed and felt like rigor mortis. 

Since April 2022, God has answered my prayers by allowing my body to heal seven years after having three strokes and after many doctors said after six months that recovery may not occur. So never give up on regaining functionality in your limbs because it may take more time than most.

Based on my experience, here are some home tips that could help you regain and restore function of your paralyzed limbs and create hope for becoming differently able:

  • Please be a survivor not a victim; don’t give up.
  • Get up every day, eat breakfast, shower, get dressed and be great!
  • Stretch your body and move throughout the day. 
  • Place a pencil or plunger wooden pole into your paralyzed hand to begin reconnecting the nerves and reverse misalignment in the affected areas.
  • If your foot is twisted, wear your brace while up and moving at home. 
  • Wear your gym shoes because it becomes a resistance to the way the spasticity is trying to twist and turn your ankle.
  • Get a carpal tunnel brace for your wrist to keep your bones and nerves properly aligned. 

    • Remember, we are not disabled — we survived a near-death experience and have a second chance to get it right.

    Thank you for reading this. My purpose now is to share my story to encourage you to keep going and know you can heal from your stroke.

    Bless you and keep your head to the sky.

    For more information on this health topic, visit stroke.org.

    Would you like help dealing with heart or stroke conditions -- either yours or someone else’s? Join us in the AHA’s Support Network! We are an online community of patients, survivors and caregivers where you can share your experience while getting encouragement, hope and informational resources from others who have been there. Membership is free and the benefits can be priceless. Register today. 

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