Sitting in a waiting room recently, I found myself included in a wonderful "support
group" that formed spontaneously. None of us had met before, but we all had
something in common - something called "stroke". Like myself, some were accompanying
a family member that has suffered a stroke. Others were actual stroke survivors
themselves. I was amazed at how quickly we bonded. There was instant understanding.
We were all focused on the best possible recovery, on regaining our
lives. Yes, stroke does that.....it joins together suvivors who are determined
to live in a climate of hope.
How is it that those with BAVD or some other form of TAAD find themselves amongst
stroke survivors?
Stroke or "brain attack" causes injury to the brain in one of two ways, through
either bleeding or blockage of blood vessels in the brain. Those with Bicuspid
Aortic Valve Disease and Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm may be at risk of stroke
for several reasons.
"Embolic stroke", caused by particles blocking
the blood vessels of the brain, might seem to be the only risk for those
with BAVD and TAAD. It is true that blood clots, calcification, and plaque are
potential sources of particles that might cause stroke if they reach the brain.
In Richard Houchin's experience we see that aortic tissue fragments may travel to the brain during aortic
dissection. My husband's stroke (see February 2006) resulted from valvular strands. Yes, there are numerous reasons why those with
BAVD and TAAD might experience this type of stroke. But they are not exempt from
the risk of bleeding in the brain either. There is an association with BAVD and
brain aneurysms, introducing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Carrie Mettler's story is shared to encourage those with BAVD to be checked for brain aneurysms.
I have learned a great deal from those who live each day with the affects
of stroke. Encircled by some of them in that waiting room, I felt honored
to be among a very special group of survivors. Their wisdom is so costly, their
love of life contagious! Listening to their words, along with expressions of
the very real fear and devastation associated with stroke, I also heard determination,
courage, hope, love and joy. I was very grateful for their
inspiration that day. And again I was reminded of how much each of us can do to
create a climate of hope.
For families and medical professionals,
by families and medical
professionals
Creating a climate of hope, an atmosphere of caring, and a source of information for
all who are touched by thoracic aortic disease and the medical professionals
who care for them.
