Survivor Around the Globe, Deedra Atkinson

Deedra AtkinsonI remember August 17, 2016 like it was yesterday. It was on a Wednesday, a day where it was my normal routine to workout around 8:30pm at my apartment gym. On that particular night, I decided to call my fiancé to ask if I could come to his gym to work out with him – thank God I did! He lived on the other side of Charlotte, NC which is a 20-minute drive from me. I was hesitant because I had to work early the next morning, but he finally gave in. I headed off to his gym and we started working out about 9:00pm and we had a pretty good work out together.

As we were finishing up, I suddenly felt lightheaded but figured it was because of the exercise. As I proceeded to lean on the wall I collapsed to the ground and had a seizure. I woke up after about 8 minutes later and was very confused and head hurting so bad I almost vomited.

My fiancé called 911 and the ambulance took me to the nearest hospital, Carolinas Medical Center University. After a few tests and CT scans, I was given the unfortunate news that I had a ruptured brain aneurysm and needed emergency surgery to repair the rupture and stop the bleeding.

I was rushed to CMC Main where the wonderful Dr. Joe Bernard performed embolization coiling surgery. I spent 19 days in ICU, 6 days in the regular room and was out of work for 4 months. I developed anxiety and depression after the traumatic experience I went though and ended up seeking therapy. Slight limitations now, but eventually it will get better.

I now have a better outlook on life, I don’t take things for granted and I have a stronger faith and relationship with God. I also met wonderful people in my support group.

I am lucky to be alive and although it took me awhile to get over the fear of going back to the gym, I am proud to say I am finally back in the gym working out! I am so grateful for Dr. Bernard and his staff for saving my life. I know God is still performing miracles, because I am one.


The Joe Niekro Foundation would like to thank Deedra for sharing her courageous story and inspiring others to not be scared to continue to do what they love!

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To highlight our impact and convey our mission with clarity, we are excited to announce that the Joe Niekro Foundation is now the Niekro Aneurysm and AVM Foundation. We look forward to building on the Niekro legacy and continuing our mission!
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