When you think of a stroke survivor, you don’t usually picture a 24-year-old woman in labor. But that’s exactly where Paige Overcash found herself—mid-delivery, fighting high blood pressure and unknowingly living through a hemorrhagic stroke.
In this episode of Stroke Talks, Paige joins Sybil Jones to share her deeply personal and powerful stroke story. As two military spouses living in Bahrain and fellow stroke warriors, they keep it real about recovery, motherhood, and the invisible scars that stroke often leaves behind.
A Stroke in the Delivery Room
Paige’s stroke journey began during what was supposed to be a routine delivery. At 36.5 weeks pregnant, her blood pressure spiked past 200 despite medication and close monitoring. Although she avoided a seizure, her delivery became urgent—and traumatic.
After giving birth, Paige mentioned that something felt off with her vision. Her doctor acted quickly, ordering an MRI. That scan revealed she had suffered a hemorrhagic stroke during labor—caused by dangerously high blood pressure brought on by pregnancy.
“It looked like I had a thumbprint on my eye,” Paige recalls. That visual distortion was her first and only major clue that something wasn’t right.
Navigating Stroke Recovery as a New Mom
Paige was transferred by ambulance two hours away to San Francisco, while her newborn remained in the NICU back in Monterey. Though she was quickly discharged, her blood pressure remained unstable, and she was soon back in the hospital, this time with her baby nearby.
Recovery at home came with its own challenges—swelling, ongoing medication, and a vision that didn’t fully bounce back. But for Paige, the hardest part wasn’t always physical.
“I didn’t go through therapy because I healed fairly quickly, but the mental aspect of recovery? That’s where I struggled the most,” she shared.
The Mental Recovery We Don’t Talk About Enough
Both Sybil and Paige agree—stroke recovery isn’t just physical. There’s a heavy emotional and mental burden that lingers long after discharge papers are signed.
Anxiety, confusion, memory gaps, and overwhelming mental fog became part of their everyday lives. “I used to be outgoing and confident,” Sybil shared. “Now I wake up feeling buzzed. Like my brain’s still trying to catch up with the rest of me.”
Paige echoed those feelings:
“I was never an anxious person before. But after my stroke—and becoming a mom the way I did—my anxiety got worse. It rewired something in me.”
One of the most important takeaways from Paige’s story? Strokes don’t always come with visible signs. There was no slurred speech, facial droop, or immediate paralysis in her case. Her stroke was internal—an invisible emergency that could’ve been missed without a doctor who listened and looked closer.
It’s a crucial reminder that the acronym BE FAST (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, Time) can help—but not all strokes follow that script.
Words of Encouragement for Other Stroke Warriors
Paige offers this advice to fellow survivors:
“Take it one day at a time. Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t. It’s hard, but worth it.”
And for family members or caregivers?
“Acknowledge that it’s a big deal—even if your loved one ‘looks fine.’ Stroke is a silent trauma. Your support matters more than you know.”
Why We Share These Stories
Here at Stroke Talks, our mission is to raise awareness, offer hope, and build community through real, raw, and relatable stories.
One of the hardest things about recovering from a stroke is dealing with all the changes—not just physical, but emotional and mental. After my stroke, my family started noticing shifts in my behavior that I didn’t recognize at first. I became extremely jumpy at even the smallest sounds. Social settings, once enjoyable, became places of discomfort. Regulating my emotions felt like a battle I was constantly losing. Irritability, anger, and oh so many more reactions and emotions that were abnormal for me. Anxiety had crept into my life, but it wasn’t until much later that I realized just how much it was taking over.
Anxiety Took Control
Anxiety is more than being nervous about a test or giving a speech in public. It’s more than feeling jittery before a big event. It’s a weight that presses down on you, sometimes without warning. And for me, it began to control my life. I found myself avoiding people, avoiding places. I didn’t want to face the outside world, where everything felt unpredictable. My emotions were all over the place, and it wasn’t just affecting me—it was affecting my family, too.
The Impact on My Loved Ones
Looking back, I can see that my loved ones were walking on eggshells around me, unsure of what might trigger my next reaction. It got to the point where I had to admit it or should I say, forced to admit: I couldn’t handle this alone. As much as I had the “I can do it myself” mentality, anxiety had proven me wrong. I was making life difficult for the people I care about most. Anxiety doesn’t just affect the stroke warrior; it spills over onto the people who love them. And that’s a tough pill to swallow and requires a lot of love and patience from loved ones. Trust me when I say, “I didn’t realize the totality of my actions. And maybe your stroke warrior doesn’t either. Be loving, be patient, and have some grace.
But hey, to all the loved ones out there reading this, be patient. This journey is just as confusing for us as it is for you. Anxiety post-stroke is not just about the fear of having another stroke, either. Interestingly, I rarely actively thought about having another one. Yet, deep down, I think my mind, in its own way, was trying to cope with the trauma. Maybe it was my unconscious mind sending out signals that something wasn’t quite right, even when I thought I was past it.
Getting Help Was the Best Decision
Seeking help was the hardest best decision I could have made. It’s a process, and I’m still working through it. However, recognizing that anxiety is a real, powerful force in life after a stroke has been a game-changer. And if you’re feeling similar things—whether you’re the stroke warrior or the one supporting them—know it’s okay to reach out for help. You don’t have to do it alone.
A Look Ahead: Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depression often take a walk down the aisle together, and in my case, they certainly made an appearance. I’ll be sharing more about depression and how it impacted my journey in an upcoming blog post. And hey, just because you see a big smile doesn’t mean all is well beneath the surface. Keep that in mind when you’re supporting someone on their stroke recovery journey.
Do I continue to wrestle with anxiety and depression? Yes. I call them my two new best friends, who are bitches to deal with. But I know their ways and work to stay ten steps ahead to keep them from getting the best of me. More on this later soon.
Your generosity can make a profound impact on Stroke Talks, enabling us to expand our reach, provide valuable resources, and foster a stronger community for stroke survivors and their loved ones. Every dollar you contribute fuels our mission to enhance awareness, and empower those affected by strokes. Join us in making a meaningful difference – because every dollar counts towards building a brighter future for individuals on their journey to recovery and resilience. Support HERE
Please note that Stroke Talks is not a 501(c)(3) organization, and as such, donations made to our platform may not be tax-deductible. While we greatly appreciate your support, we recommend consulting with a tax professional for guidance on the ta
Carotid artery thrombosis might sound like a mouthful, but it’s an important topic to understand, especially when we’re talking about stroke prevention.
What Are the Carotid Arteries?
First, let’s break it down. You have two carotid arteries, one on each side of your neck. They’re like superhighways for blood, carrying oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your brain. This blood flow is crucial because your brain needs a constant supply of oxygen to function properly.
What Happens During a Carotid Artery Thrombosis?
Imagine one of those highways getting blocked by a traffic jam. In the case of carotid artery thrombosis, that “traffic jam” is actually a blood clot that forms in the artery. This clot can severely reduce or even completely block the blood flow to your brain, which is extremely dangerous.
Why Is It Dangerous?
When your brain doesn’t get enough oxygen, brain cells start to die off. This can lead to a stroke, which can cause lasting damage to your body and mind, or even be life-threatening. Carotid artery thrombosis is one of the key causes of ischemic stroke, which is the most common type of stroke.
What Causes the Blood Clot?
Several factors can increase the risk of developing a blood clot in the carotid artery. These include:
Atherosclerosis: This is when plaque (made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances) builds up on the artery walls, narrowing them and making it easier for clots to form.
High Blood Pressure: Constant high pressure can damage the arteries, making them more susceptible to clots.
Smoking: Chemicals in cigarettes can damage your blood vessels, leading to increased clotting.
Diabetes: This condition can lead to changes in blood vessels that make clotting more likely.
Carotid Webbing: A rare and lesser-known cause is carotid webbing, which was the cause of Sybil’s stroke. Carotid webbing is a thin, fibrous band in the carotid artery that can disrupt blood flow and increase the risk of clot formation. Although rare, carotid webbing is a significant risk factor for stroke, especially in younger individuals who might not have other traditional stroke risk factors. For more detailed medical information about carotid webbing, you can read this source.
Symptoms to Watch For
Carotid artery thrombosis doesn’t always cause symptoms until a stroke is happening or is about to happen. However, some warning signs include:
Sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body
Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
Dizziness or loss of balance
Severe headache with no known cause
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If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Time is of the essence in preventing or minimizing the impact of a stroke.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment for carotid artery thrombosis often involves medications to prevent blood clots, such as blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs. In some cases, a procedure called a carotid endarterectomy might be performed to remove the plaque buildup and restore normal blood flow. There’s also a less invasive procedure called carotid artery stenting, where a small tube is inserted to keep the artery open.
Prevention Is Key
Preventing carotid artery thrombosis often comes down to lifestyle choices. Quitting smoking, managing high blood pressure, controlling diabetes, eating a healthy diet, and staying active can all reduce your risk.
Understanding carotid artery thrombosis is a crucial step in preventing strokes. By being aware of the risks, symptoms, and treatment options, you can take action to protect your brain and your overall health.
Your generosity can make a profound impact on Stroke Talks, enabling us to expand our reach, provide valuable resources, and foster a stronger community for stroke survivors and their loved ones. Every dollar you contribute fuels our mission to enhance awareness, and empower those affected by strokes. Join us in making a meaningful difference – because every dollar counts towards building a brighter future for individuals on their journey to recovery and resilience.
Please note that Stroke Talks is not a 501(c)(3) organization, and as such, donations made to our platform may not be tax-deductible. While we greatly appreciate your support, we recommend consulting with a tax professional for guidance on the ta
Strokes are a critical health emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes. Each year, approximately 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and swift action. Recognizing the early warning signs and acting quickly can save lives and improve recovery chances. That’s where the acronym BE FAST comes into play, a simple way to remember the key symptoms of a stroke.
B is for Balance – The first indicator of a stroke. Balance issues or a sudden loss of coordination can be a potent sign of a stroke. Imagine standing up and feeling the room spin, or suddenly finding it hard to walk straight or coordinate your movements. These are not just inconveniences; they’re red flags waving for immediate attention.
How to Recognize It
Sudden Dizziness: An unexplained dizziness or a spinning sensation that you can’t attribute to just standing up too fast or being tired.
Loss of Coordination: Difficulty walking, stumbling, or an unexpected loss of balance.
Unexplained Falls: Suddenly falling without a clear reason could be a sign.
What Action to Take
If you or someone around you experiences a sudden loss of balance or coordination, it’s time to BE FAST in your response:
Balance: Check if there’s sudden dizziness or loss of balance.
Eyes: Look for any loss of vision in one or both eyes.
Face Drooping: Ask them to smile to see if one side of the face droops.
Arm Weakness: Check if one arm is weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
Speech Difficulty: Is speech slurred, are they unable to speak, or are they hard to understand?
Time to call emergency services: If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call your local emergency number immediately. Time is brain.
A stroke is a medical emergency. Prompt treatment is crucial. Early action can minimize brain damage and potential complications. The ability to recognize the signs of a stroke and taking immediate action with BE FAST can be life-saving.
For more detailed information on stroke symptoms and emergency response, check out these resources:
Remember, you are a vital link in the chain of survival for stroke victims. By keeping the BE FAST guidelines in mind, you’re equipped to act swiftly and effectively, potentially saving a life or preventing long-term disability.
Stay informed, stay vigilant, and let’s continue our fight against stroke together. Sign up for our newsletter for more resources, stories, and support in our shared journey toward stroke awareness and recovery.
Your generosity can make a profound impact on Stroke Talks, enabling us to expand our reach, provide valuable resources, and foster a stronger community for stroke survivors and their loved ones. Every dollar you contribute fuels our mission to enhance awareness, and empower those affected by strokes. Join us in making a meaningful difference – because every dollar counts towards building a brighter future for individuals on their journey to recovery and resilience.
Please note that Stroke Talks is not a 501(c)(3) organization, and as such, donations made to our platform may not be tax-deductible. While we greatly appreciate your support, we recommend consulting with a tax professional for guidance on the tax implications of your contribution.
I leave you today with this song. I hope it blesses you as it does me.
Stroke is a medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide, with ischemic stroke being the most common type. Understanding what an ischemic stroke is, recognizing its warning signs, and knowing how to respond can significantly impact outcomes for those affected.
What is an Ischemic Stroke?
An ischemic stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes. It accounts for about 87% of all stroke cases, making it the most common type of stroke.
Causes of Ischemic Stroke
Ischemic strokes are primarily caused by blockages in the arteries leading to the brain. These blockages can result from two main conditions:
Thrombosis: The formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel of the brain or neck.
Embolism: The movement of a clot from another part of the body, such as the heart, to the brain.
Other risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.
Identifying a stroke early can significantly influence the treatment outcome. The BE FAST acronym serves as a guide:
B (Balance loss): Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.
E (Eyesight changes): Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, including blurred or double vision.
F (Face drooping): One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask the person to smile to check for unevenness.
A (Arm weakness): Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm. Ask the person to raise both arms to see if one drifts downward.
S (Speech difficulty): Slurred or strange speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase and listen for clarity.
T (Time to call emergency services): If you observe any of these signs, even if they disappear, call emergency services immediately.
Treatment and Recovery
Treatment for ischemic stroke focuses on restoring blood flow to the brain as quickly as possible. Treatments include:
Clot-busting drugs (thrombolytics): These drugs can dissolve blood clots that are blocking blood flow to the brain, but they need to be administered within a few hours after symptoms start.
Mechanical thrombectomy: A procedure in which a catheter is navigated to the site of the blockage to physically remove the clot. In my case, that was deep in the right side of my brain.
Recovery from an ischemic stroke varies from person to person and depends on the stroke’s severity, the area of the brain affected, and the individual’s overall health. Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and lifestyle changes to prevent future strokes.
Your generosity can make a profound impact on Stroke Talks, enabling us to expand our reach, provide valuable resources, and foster a stronger community for stroke survivors and their loved ones. Every dollar you contribute fuels our mission to enhance awareness, and empower those affected by strokes. Join us in making a meaningful difference – because every dollar counts towards building a brighter future for individuals on their journey to recovery and resilience.
Please note that Stroke Talks is not a 501(c)(3) organization, and as such, donations made to our platform may not be tax-deductible. While we greatly appreciate your support, we recommend consulting with a tax professional for guidance on the tax implications of your contribution.
Ischemic stroke is a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention. Knowing the warning signs and how to respond can save lives and improve recovery outcomes. If you or someone you know is at risk for stroke, it’s important to manage risk factors and live a healthy lifestyle to prevent stroke. Remember, stroke is a medical emergency, and time is of the essence when it comes to treatment.
Educating yourself and others about ischemic stroke and its warning signs is a vital step in reducing the impact of this condition worldwide. For more information on stroke prevention, treatment, and recovery, stay tuned to StrokeTalks.com, follow us on social media, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
I leave you today with this song. I hope it blesses you as it does me.
