September 3rd is a big day for my family – grandchild’s birthday, daughter’s wedding anniversary and my second birthday!
On September 3, 2014 during a bike spin class with friends, I suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm. The next 30 days were filled with pain and uncertainty for myself, my family and my friends I am, as my neurologist told my husband, “one of the lucky ones”. I never take those words for granted. I am also the surviving daughter of an aneurysm victim. I lost my mother Jan in July 1986 – she was 43 years old and was found in her bedroom by my brother. I am a huge advocate now for knowing family history and protecting next generations from this heartache. Being “one of the lucky ones”, I have no deficits and have tried to make a difference with the way I live my life. I have volunteered at the hospital where I recovered and am excited to work with the hospital’s program director to start a support group for aneurysm/AVM patients and families.
My most important roles in life: wearing the title of Mommy, Mimi, Wife, Sister and friend. With the children and grandchildren growing up, I am becoming more active in groups geared toward healing both physically and mentally. Thank you to the Niekro Foundation for giving me this opportunity.
As a survivor The Niekro Foundation has benefitted me by connecting with others. My main objective is to help others navigate through this time in their lives.
My words of hope and advice for others is always take and embrace the help that others offer to you (put pride aside), accept the bad days and know that a new day is always right around the corner and PMA….a positive mental attitude is the most important in healing -both physically and mentally.
